Speaking to pilgrims at the end of a special Jubilee audience June 14, the pope expressed deep concern over the “seriously deteriorating” situation in the Middle East, warning of the consequences of further escalation. “I want to strongly renew an appeal to responsibility and reason,” he said.

Pope Leo XIV addressed the faithful with his thoughts about the "many armed conflicts" happening in the world during the traditional Angelus prayer he held on Sunday (June 15) in St Peter's Square.

Pope Leo appealed on Saturday for authorities in Iran and Israel to act with "reason" after airstrikes between the two countries killed dozens and sent civilians into shelters, and called on the nations to pursue dialogue.

Pope Leo XIV has said a prayer for the people of Benue over the recent killings in the state. On June 14, over 100 people were reportedly killed in attacks by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Daudu communities, in Guma LGA of Benue state.

Pope Leo has offered prayers for victims of the fresh massacre in Benue State, where around 200 people were reportedly killed in an attack on rural communities.Delivering his remarks just before the Sunday Angelus prayer,