Pope Leo issued a stark condemnation of the worsening violence in the Middle East during a Vatican meeting Thursday, describing the current level of conflict as reaching a scale of destruction never seen before.

Speaking before Catholic bishops and Middle East aid workers, Leo criticized the erosion of international legal norms and expressed alarm at the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, Reuters reported.

In his remarks, Pope Leo described the region as suffering a wave of armed conflict, exploitation, and animosity that has left many nations scarred and vulnerable. He told attendees that the intensity of recent confrontations exceeds anything previously witnessed in the area.

The pope stated that several countries are being severely harmed by ongoing warfare, interference by powerful interests, and widespread hostilities that have created an atmosphere of fear and instability. He warned that hatred in the region has become so pervasive that it has made peaceful coexistence increasingly difficult.

Pope Leo noted that many actors across global conflicts appear to be following a belief that power justifies action, rather than adhering to legal and moral obligations. He said this attitude is contributing to growing instability and human suffering worldwide.

Pope Cites Breakdown of Legal Norms

He voiced concern that the foundation of international and humanitarian law is deteriorating, with more governments and groups favoring coercion over cooperation. During his address, he said it was distressing to witness how often force is used to serve selfish objectives.

The Vatican leader emphasized the urgent need to uphold the rule of law in the face of increasing disregard for legal standards. He warned that failing to do so risks normalizing a system where might replaces right and suppresses any hope for enduring peace.

Pope Leo dedicated particular attention to the situation in Gaza, where residents are facing immense hardship caused by ongoing restrictions and violence. He described the crisis there as both heartbreaking and deeply unjust, saying humanitarian needs were being ignored.

Humanitarian Appeal for Gaza Amid Suffering

Although he did not refer directly to any nations during his recent statement, Pope Leo had previously appealed in May for Israel to allow more aid to flow into Gaza. That request remains part of the Vatican’s wider efforts to support civilians caught in the conflict.

Thursday's comments came against the backdrop of fresh instability in the region, following a 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran. During that time, U.S. military forces targeted Iranian locations believed to be linked to nuclear development.

Despite the recent escalation involving the U.S., Iran, and Israel, the pope refrained from commenting directly on the standoff or the airstrikes. Instead, he spoke more broadly about the global trend of choosing confrontation over diplomacy.

Leadership Rooted in Past and Present

In appealing for moral clarity, Pope Leo brought attention to the broader cost of violence and political indifference. He said international inaction only prolongs suffering and legitimizes behaviors that defy justice.

Leo, who was elected as the head of the Catholic Church in May 2025 following the passing of Pope Francis, is the first American-born pontiff. His remarks this week reflect a continuation of efforts to engage global leaders on peace and human rights since assuming the papacy.

Under his early leadership, the Vatican has already signaled a renewed focus on the Middle East as well as on enhancing the coordination of relief efforts in regions struggling with protracted conflict.

Call to Reject Self-Interest in Diplomacy

Leo urged political and religious leaders alike to chart a course away from self-serving policies and toward compassion and accountability. He said major powers should act not out of dominance but from a place of shared responsibility.

“It is truly distressing,” he said, “to see the principle of ‘might makes right’ prevailing in so many situations today.” He warned that this approach only deepens global division.

"It is troubling to see that the force of international and humanitarian law seems no longer to be binding," he added, calling for renewed global commitment to ethical leadership and respect for human dignity.