Vatican Issues Unusual Direct Appeal to U.S., Israel to End War

Vatican Issues Unusual Direct Appeal to U.S., Israel to End War
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The Vatican has made a rare direct appeal to the United States and Israel, calling for an end to escalating regional conflict and urging restraint in ongoing military actions.

Speaking on Wednesday, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin addressed U.S. President Donald Trump, urging a swift conclusion to the war involving Iran. In what was described as an unusual direct message, Parolin said, “End the war as soon as possible… and leave Lebanon alone,” noting that the appeal was also directed at Israel regarding its strikes on Lebanese territory.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region, with ongoing hostilities involving Iran and Israeli military operations in Lebanon.

Earlier reports cited advisers to Trump as saying the U.S. president is more inclined to end the conflict with Iran than Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting differing strategic calculations between Washington and Tel Aviv.

According to U.S. officials quoted by Axios, Trump’s primary objectives include dismantling Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities, limiting its maritime activities, and cutting funding to allied groups. Officials indicated that while regime change in Iran could be viewed as an additional outcome, the administration’s stated aim is to end the war once its core objectives are achieved.