VATICAN CITY: Spiritual leader of Catholics worldwide, Pope Leo, has once again opposed attacks on Iran and stressed the need for a peaceful resolution to the issue.

According to a news agency, addressing global leaders, Pope Leo said that only a return to negotiations can bring an end to the war, warning that the lives of Iranian citizens are at risk.

He added that the situation is not just an international legal matter but also a moral issue.

He further stated that it is the responsibility of world leaders to stop violence and war and seek the path of peace.

He urged them to sit at the table for resolving conflicts, not at the table where decisions are made to manufacture weapons and carry out deadly actions.

Pope Leo added that an unjust war is only escalating and will not achieve anything, noting that the situation in the Middle East is fueling not only a global economic and energy crisis but also increasing hatred.