Pope Leo XIV Ends Africa Tour, Comments on US-Iran Standoff

Pope Leo concluded an 11-day apostolic journey to Africa on Thursday, expressing frustration with the lack of progress in diplomatic efforts to end the war between the United States and Iran. The pontiff made these remarks to reporters aboard the papal plane returning to the Vatican.

The trip included visits to four African countries. The fragile ceasefire in place since April 8 has been tested by the ongoing standoff over the Strait of Hormuz. Iran imposed a blockade on the waterway in early March, followed by a U.S. ban on ships entering or exiting Iranian ports.

Up to 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow passage between Iran and Oman.

“One day Iran says 'yes,' the United States says 'no,' and vice versa,” Pope Leo stated, highlighting the chaotic situation affecting the world economy. He noted the suffering of innocent people in Iran due to the war. Asked about reports of the Iranian regime executing political opponents, the pope condemned capital punishment and the unjust taking of lives.

The U.S. president posted on Truth Social that Iran is struggling to identify its leader and that the U.S. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on X, stating that Iran's leadership remains unified and its institutions act with purpose and discipline.

The pontiff responded to earlier remarks from the U.S. president, who called him weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy. Pope Leo stated he has no fear of speaking out on the gospel's message.

The tour began on April 13 in Algeria, marking the first visit by a pope to the mostly Muslim country. There, Pope Leo made a pilgrimage to the ruins of an ancient Roman city associated with St. Augustine. The trip ended with a Mass for thousands in Malabo Stadium. Throughout the journey, Pope Leo interacted with reporters on the papal plane, making several statements on global issues.

On immigration, Pope Leo acknowledged that states have the right to implement border rules to avoid unjust situations. However, he emphasized the responsibility of wealthy countries to invest in poorer nations to address root causes of migration. He called for treating migrants humanely, not worse than animals.

“I ask what do we do in the richer countries to change the situation in the poorer countries,” the pope said. He suggested aid from states and multinational companies to improve conditions in countries like those visited.