Pope Leo on March 11 lamented the death of numerous civilians in the ongoing Iran war and also expressed closeness to people in Lebanon, saying the country, targeted by Israeli strikes, was going through a "great trial."

Leo, the first U.S. pope, called on pilgrims in his weekly audience in St. Peter's Square to pray for peace.

"Let us continue to pray for peace in Iran, and throughout the Middle East, especially for the many civilian victims, including many innocent children," said the pontiff.

Production: Oriana Boselli/Reuters

Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives for the weekly general audience in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican, March 11, 2026. REUTERS/Yara Nardi

Pope Leo XIV blesses a child as he arrives for the weekly general audience in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican, March 11, 2026. REUTERS/Yara Nardi