Pope Leo XIV once again expressed his concern about the situation in the Middle East, but this time the focus was not on Gaza, but on Iran instead.
POPE LEO XIV
In particular in Iran and in Syria, where persistent tensions are causing the death of many people. I hope and pray that dialogue and peace may be patiently fostered.
Iran is currently the scene of protests and violent crackdowns that began at the end of December and still occurring.
It is estimated that at least 190 people have died in the massive demonstrations, and that more than two thousand arrests have been carried out by the repressive regime that governs the country.
In addition, Pope Leo once again issued an appeal for peace in Ukraine, which continues to suffer attacks, focusing especially in the months of war during the winter which are even more difficult.
POPE LEO XIV
I renew my appeal for violence to cease and for efforts to achieve peace to be intensified.
All of this took place on the Sunday on which the Baptism of Jesus was celebrated, and on the first occasion on which the Pope baptized 20 children, sons and daughters of some Vatican employees—a tradition that was also carried out by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
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