CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy — Pope Leo is welcoming the temporary agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the ongoing war in the Middle East, offering words of gratitude and hope as the two nations prepare to make the deal official.
Speaking to reporters outside his residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy on Tuesday, Leo expressed relief over the development, saying “thanks be to God” as the formal signing is set for Friday.
The pontiff, who previously drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump after speaking out against the Iran war, made clear he is optimistic — but realistic — about the road ahead.
“There will still be several points to settle, but it is always better to do so through dialogue, through negotiations, and not by returning to war,” said Leo, who holds the distinction of being the first American-born pope.
He added that he is holding out hope for a permanent resolution to the conflict. “I hope that it truly is a solution to the war, that the war really is over, and that we can move forward,” he told journalists.
