Pope Leo expressed gratitude on Tuesday for the interim agreement reached between the United States and Iran aimed at concluding the regional conflict in the Middle East, stating "thanks be to God" as the two nations prepare to finalize their accord on Friday.
The Pontiff, who had previously faced criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump for his remarks on the Iran conflict, conveyed his hope that the agreement will bring a definitive end to hostilities.
"There will still be several points to settle, but it is always better to do so through dialogue, through negotiations, and not by returning to war," Pope Leo, the first American pontiff, remarked to journalists gathered outside his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy.
He added, "I hope that it truly is a solution to the war, that the war really is over, and that we can move forward."
