Pope Leo XIV has called for calm and dialogue amid rising violence in the Middle East, warning that the growing confrontation between the United States, Israel and Iran could spiral into a disaster of global proportions.

Speaking during the Angelus prayer at the Vatican on Sunday, the pontiff expressed deep concern over recent military strikes and retaliatory attacks in the region.

The Pope noted that stability and peace are not built with mutual threats, nor with weapons, which according to him sow destruction, pain, and death, but only through a reasonable, authentic, and responsible dialogue.

“Faced with the possibility of a tragedy of enormous proportions, I address to the parties involved a heartfelt appeal to assume the moral responsibility to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss,” Pope Leo XIV appealed.

The Pope also reiterated his message in posts on X, urging leaders to halt what he described as a dangerous escalation and allow diplomacy to regain its proper role.

His remarks came as fears mounted over a broader regional conflict following reports of coordinated U.S.–Israel airstrikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory attacks.

Amid the tension, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Kuwait on Sunday issued a safety advisory to Nigerian nationals in Kuwait and Bahrain.

“In view of the prevailing circumstances in the region, the Embassy wishes to advise all Nigerian nationals in both countries to remain vigilant, observe safety guidelines, advisories from the host (official) governments, and remain calm at all times,” the statement read.

The embassy encouraged Nigerians to closely monitor local news and official announcements from Kuwaiti and Bahraini authorities.

“The Embassy is closely monitoring the situation and is in close contact with the leadership of the various communities,” it added.

To ensure effective communication, the mission announced the creation of a dedicated mobile and WhatsApp line for Nigerians and provided contact details for inquiries and support.

In Abuja, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had on Saturday also called for de-escalation and restraint in the Gulf region.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the ministry said Nigeria expressed deep concern over the rising tensions in the Gulf region and the risk of further escalation with potentially grave consequences for regional and global stability.

“Nigeria calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that could intensify hostilities, and prioritise dialogue over confrontation,” the statement said.

The ministry further urged strict adherence to the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Convention, stressing respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and peaceful settlement of disputes.

It emphasised “the imperative of restraint in the use of lethal force, to prevent further loss of civilian life,” noting that sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, mutual respect and compliance with international law.

Nigerian authorities say they are monitoring developments closely and remain committed to safeguarding the welfare of citizens in the region, while global religious and political leaders press for calm to avert a wider conflict. (Guardian)