Pope Leo XIV called Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Friday to urge Israel to pursue diplomatic solutions to end the ongoing conflict with Iran, according to Vatican officials.
The pontiff specifically pressed Herzog to "reopen all paths of dialogue" as the regional war continues to escalate. The Vatican statement highlighted the pope's emphasis on protecting civilian populations and ensuring respect for international humanitarian law.
The papal intervention comes as Pope Leo has positioned himself as an increasingly vocal critic of the Middle East conflict. His direct appeal to the Israeli president represents a significant diplomatic engagement from the Holy See at a critical juncture in the regional crisis.
The timing of the call coincides with mounting international pressure for de-escalation as the conflict between Israel and Iran has drawn in additional regional actors and global powers. The Vatican's diplomatic outreach reflects broader international concerns about the humanitarian impact and potential for wider regional destabilization.
Herzog's office has not yet publicly responded to the papal call or indicated whether Israel will consider the Vatican's appeal for renewed diplomatic engagement. The Israeli president, while largely ceremonial in role, maintains significant influence in foreign policy discussions and international relations.
German coverage frames the papal call as part of broader diplomatic efforts while noting military escalation. The outlet matter-of-factly reports both the Vatican's peace appeal and US military strikes on Iranian infrastructure.