Pope Leo XIV has described the ceasefire between the United States and Iran as a “sign of real hope”, expressing optimism that the truce could pave the way for renewed negotiations.
“I welcome with satisfaction, and as a sign of real hope, the announcement of an immediate two-week truce. Only by returning to negotiations can we reach the end of the war,” the Pope said on Wednesday at the Vatican.
The announcement of the temporary suspension of hostilities was first made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who confirmed that attacks on Iran would be halted for two weeks.
Trump explained that the decision was influenced by discussions with Pakistani leaders Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, who urged restraint.
“This will be a double sided CEASEFIRE! The reason for doing so is that we have already met and exceeded all military objectives, and are very far along with a definitive agreement concerning long term PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East,” Trump declared.
The truce is seen as a critical step toward easing tensions in the region, with hopes that it could lead to a broader peace agreement.