Pope Leo urges peace and diplomacy as Israel and Iran exchange strikes

Pope Leo XIV has described war as a “painful defeat” of diplomacy while warning that the world is facing a “profound” crisis marked by violence and political division.

Speaking during a historic address to Spain’s parliament on Monday, the pontiff called for countries to resolve conflicts through international law and diplomacy.

His comments came as Israel and Iran exchanged strikes in the region’s most serious escalation in months.

“Every war constitutes, ultimately, a painful defeat of the capacity to negotiate and also of that shared conscience of humanity that recognizes bonds of justice between nations,” Pope Leo told political leaders in Madrid.

“The world is going through a profound spiritual and cultural crisis, which manifests itself in multiple forms of violence, polarization and mutual distrust,” he added.

The pope stressed that “peace demands diplomatic courage, ethical responsibility” and urged governments to settle disputes peacefully.

The address marked the first speech by a pope before Spain’s Cortes Generales. During his visit, Leo also met Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who has publicly opposed the United States and Israel’s military actions involving Iran.

Beyond global conflicts, the pope also highlighted migration, political polarization and clergy abuse. He urged politicians to “disarm language” and warned against attacks on political opponents.

Pope Leo further called on Spain’s bishops to support abuse survivors through “listening, truth, justice, reparation and an ever more determined commitment to prevention and a culture of care.”