As the world watches tensions between Iran and Israel spiral dangerously, voices from an entirely different front—faith leaders—are urging calm and reconciliation.
While missiles fly and casualties mount, high-ranking Catholic officials in both countries are united in one plea: peace.
Violence Escalates Following Israel’s Strike on Iranian Targets
The conflict reignited on June 13 when Israel launched a series of targeted attacks against Iranian military leaders and nuclear infrastructure.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly stated that the goal was to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear program—a move that has long been a sticking point in Middle East geopolitics.
In retaliation, Iran fired hundreds of ballistic missiles toward Israel.
Fortunately, most were intercepted, but the human toll remains devastating: more than 200 people in Iran and at least 24 in Israel have lost their lives in the clashes so far.
Church Voices Speak Out in the Midst of Chaos
In the midst of this unrest, Catholic leaders are turning to faith and diplomacy.
Cardinal Dominique Mathieu, who leads the Tehran–Isfahan Archdiocese, shared his concerns just hours after the Israeli attacks.
Speaking with AsiaNews, he expressed deep disappointment that military action continues to be prioritized over dialogue.
“With heavy hearts, we observe that peace is once again being pursued through preemptive strikes instead of meaningful negotiations,” Cardinal Mathieu said.
“We pray for a path forward rooted in consensus and conversation. May the Holy Spirit guide us through this.”
A Prayer for Peace Echoes Across Borders
Meanwhile, across the border in Israel, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, echoed similar sentiments.
His office shared a public prayer on social media shortly after the violence began.
The prayer called on God to bring calm and light in this moment of fear and darkness.
Drawing from Scripture, it reminded believers of Christ’s message: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled.”
The heartfelt appeal continued: “Teach us to be peacemakers, Lord… Sow in us the seeds of reconciliation, and make us instruments of your peace in a wounded world.”
A Rare Moment of Unity Between Religious Leaders
Though Iran and Israel remain locked in deadly conflict, the unity shown by Catholic leaders on both sides is a powerful reminder that faith can still offer hope.
These leaders may not hold political power, but their words carry moral weight, especially in times of crisis.
Their shared message is clear: dialogue must replace destruction, and peace must triumph over politics.