Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with Christians in the Middle East during his Wednesday General Audience, condemning a recent terrorist attack on a church in Damascus, Syria. He offered prayers for the victims and their families, as well as those wounded by the violence.
The Pope urged the international community to support the region, saying “the whole Church stands with you.” He noted that the attack highlights Syria’s ongoing instability and fragility.
Pope Leo also called on nations to prioritize diplomacy over conflict, citing a biblical passage about the need for peace. He encouraged leaders to choose dialogue, not domination or revenge, in order to bring healing to the region.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-06/pope-to-christians-in-middle-east-whole-church-stands-with-you.html