Pope Leo XIV Calls for End to "Spiral of Violence" Following Middle East Strikes 📈

• Global Security Concern: Pope Leo XIV expressed "deep concern" regarding recent US-Israeli strikes against Iran, warns of a potential "irreparable abyss" if military escalations continue. • Diplomatic Appeal: During his weekly address at St. Peter's Square, the Pontiff urged all involved parties to embrace moral responsibility and halt the cycle of retaliation. • Path to Stability: The Pope emphasized that peace cannot be built through mutual threats or weapons, advocating instead for reasonable, genuine, and responsible dialogue as the only viable solution for regional stability. • Economic Context: While the report focuses on geopolitical tensions, such instability in the Middle East typically impacts global energy prices and supply chains, which are critical factors for the Sri Lankan economy and its import costs.