Pope Leo calls to ‘suspend the attacks’ and return to dialogue

Pope Leo XIV called for an end to escalating violence across the Middle East, urging those involved to “suspend the attacks” and urgently reopen channels of dialogue and diplomacy.

"I continue to follow with deep concern the ongoing and escalating violence in the #HolyLand, where, in recent days, many civilians, both in the West Bank and in Gaza, have once again fallen victim," he said on X on Sunday.

“The intensification of military operations has again wreaked violence and destruction, endangering the lives of countless civilians and further aggravating the shortages of drinking water and electricity."

The pope also expressed “deep concern” over civilian casualties in Gaza and the occupied West Bank and appealed for a return to negotiations aimed at achieving a just political solution based on equal rights and dignity.

I continue to follow with deep concern the ongoing and escalating violence in the #HolyLand, where, in recent days, many civilians, both in the West Bank and in Gaza, have once again fallen victim. I make a heartfelt appeal for a return to negotiations to achieve a just political…

— Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex) July 26, 2026