CCBI Voices Solidarity with Pope Leo XIV’s Call for Peace in the Middle East
New Delhi: The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) has expressed its prayerful solidarity with Pope Leo XIV, endorsing his urgent appeal for peace amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement issued today, the Conference of the Catholic Bishops of India underscored the moral and spiritual significance of the Holy Father’s call, describing it as a timely reminder to the global community to choose dialogue over confrontation. As violence, fear, and uncertainty continue to grip the region, the CCBI noted that the Pope’s voice remains a beacon of hope, urging nations to pursue peace through diplomatic and humanitarian means.
The statement highlighted the Holy Father’s repeated appeals to world leaders to cease hostilities, safeguard innocent lives, and engage in constructive dialogue. It also pointed to the grave humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict, including widespread displacement, suffering, and loss of life, particularly among the most vulnerable.
Referring to recent global political tensions and public reactions surrounding the Pope’s peace appeal, the CCBI called for restraint and responsible leadership. “Differences must be resolved through dialogue and mutual respect, not through aggression or inflammatory rhetoric,” the statement emphasised, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to justice, reconciliation, and peace.
Joining Episcopal Conferences around the world, the CCBI urged all parties involved in the conflict to immediately end violence, uphold human dignity, and respect international humanitarian law. It further appealed for unhindered humanitarian assistance to affected populations and sincere efforts toward a just and lasting peace.
The bishops also called upon the faithful, religious communities, and all people of goodwill to intensify their prayers for peace in the region, for wisdom among world leaders, and for the protection of innocent lives.
Reiterating the Church’s enduring mission, the CCBI affirmed its solidarity with those suffering the consequences of war and renewed its commitment to fostering a world rooted in justice, peace, and fraternity, echoing the Gospel call: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Mt 5:9).
