Pope Calls for Dialogue, Condemns War's Collateral Damage

Middle Eastern outlets highlight Pope Leo XIV as a rare global figure openly condemning the US–Israeli war in Iran and urging negotiations. This block stresses his warnings about 'madness of war' and 'collateral damage' to civilians, contrasting them with Trump’s dismissive response. Commentators in this region expect the Pope’s stance to resonate with audiences critical of US actions and to add pressure for a ceasefire and talks.

• •Pope Leo XIV urges world leaders to reject war in Iran and negotiate peace.
• •The Pope condemns civilian 'collateral damage' and calls the conflict 'madness of war'.
• •Donald Trump is portrayed as brushing off the Pope’s concerns and refusing to commit to a talks timeline.
• •US–Iran talks are described as starting under heavy pressure from religious and civil groups for de-escalation.
• •The Pope’s criticism is seen as strengthening regional calls for an end to the US–Israeli campaign.