Pope Leo Expresses Hope for Peace in US-Iran Agreement and Reflects on Recent Spain Visit
Speaking with reporters outside his summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo addressed several pressing global and ecclesiastical issues, including the recent US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding, his apostolic journey to Spain, the ethics of migration, and the impending schism involving the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX).
Standing outside Villa Barberini following his Tuesday routine, the Holy Father stopped to engage with journalists who had waited hours for an audience. He began by taking questions from Spanish media outlets—making up for a canceled in-flight press conference during his return from Tenerife, which had been aborted due to a technical aircraft malfunction.
A Step Toward Peace in the Middle East
When asked about the recent diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran, Pope Leo expressed deep gratitude. “Thank God there is at least this Memorandum, which they will officially sign on Friday,” he said.
While acknowledging that "several points remain to be established," the Pope firmly advocated for diplomacy. "It is always better to resolve conflicts through dialogue and negotiation rather than returning to war.” He expressed hope that the accord would signal a permanent end to hostilities, urging the international community to "eliminate nuclear weapons" and address the severe economic and social crises born from the conflict.
Reflections on Spain and Political Dialogue
Reflecting on his recent trip to Spain, the Pope praised the "enthusiastic response" of the faithful. Speaking in Spanish, he thanked the bishops, laypeople, and volunteers whose meticulous preparation made the journey "marvelous," noting that the local population appeared "very happy."
When prompted about Spain’s turbulent political climate, Pope Leo declined to intervene directly. “I do not want to interfere in Spanish politics, just as I do not in other countries,” he stated. However, he urged political leaders toward "dialogue and mutual listening," warning against the temptation to "criticize and insult the opposition without reaching agreements for the common good.”
Human Dignity and the Migration Debate
Turning to the controversial topic of "remigration"—especially in light of the EU’s new Migration and Asylum Pact—the Pope reiterated his frequent calls for compassion, referencing his recent stops in Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
The Holy Father demanded greater "respect for the person," reminding the public of the trauma driving migration. “Many times we do not recognize the reasons why these people had to leave their countries—reasons like violence, war, and conflict," the Pope emphasized. "Simply saying, ‘Let’s send them away so we can wash our hands of the problem’ does not seem to me the most Christian response.”
Impending Church Division: The SSPX Case
The dialogue took a serious turn regarding the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX). The traditionalist group recently announced plans to consecrate four bishops on July 1st without a papal mandate, defying warnings of automatic schism from the Holy See.
Pope Leo revealed that the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith is considering a final appeal. “We are still considering making another appeal to say, ‘Do not do this; let us try to live in communion in the Church.’ But it is their choice.” He lamented the potential fracture, noting that the group continues to reject fundamental tenets of the Church, including key aspects of the Second Vatican Council. “If they make that choice, I am sorry, but we must move forward,” he concluded.
Summer Rest and Future Travel Plans
On a lighter, personal note, reporters asked the Pope about his upcoming summer itinerary. Pope Leo shared that he looks forward to "a little rest, a lot of reading, reflection, and preparation for what comes next," adding with a smile, "there is always work as well.”
When pressed on whether he would actually manage to relax, he quipped, “Let’s hope so!” As for rumors regarding upcoming papal trips to Mexico and Peru—where he previously served as a missionary for over two decades—the Pope smiled and replied simply, “We’ll see.”
Papal Briefing: Pope Leo on US-Iran Peace, Migration, and Church Unity
During an informal press conference outside his Castel Gandolfo residence, Pope Leo addressed key global and Vatican issues:
US-Iran Memorandum: The Pope welcomed Friday's upcoming signing of the US-Iran accord, calling it a vital victory for dialogue over warfare. He urged both nations to use negotiation to permanently end the conflict, eliminate nuclear weapons, and repair the economic and social damage caused by the war.
Spanish Apostolic Journey: Expressing deep gratitude to the volunteers and bishops of Spain, the Pope called his recent visit "marvelous." While refusing to interfere in domestic politics, he urged Spanish leaders to embrace respectful dialogue rather than partisan insults.
The Ethics of Migration: Commenting on the EU Migration Pact, the Pope strongly condemned mass deportations or "washing one's hands" of refugees. He reminded Catholics that migrants flee war and violence, demanding that they be treated with Christian dignity.
SSPX Schism Threat: Addressing the traditionalist Society of Saint Pius X's plan to consecrate four bishops on July 1st without papal approval, the Pope stated the Vatican may issue one final appeal for unity. However, he noted that because they reject the Second Vatican Council, the Church "must move forward" if they choose division.
Summer & Future Travels: The Pope plans to spend his summer reading, reflecting, and working. When asked about upcoming trips to Mexico and Peru (where he served as a missionary for 20 years), he answered, "We'll see."
Source: Vatican News with Screenshot from Vatican Media on Youtube
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