Christian communities across the Middle East have voiced growing concern as the conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States continues to escalate, raising fears of a wider regional war.
During his Sunday address, Pope Leo XIV urged world leaders to halt the conflict and avoid what he described as a “spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss.”
The appeal reflects widespread anxiety among Christian communities in several countries affected by the expanding crisis.
Fear and uncertainty in Lebanon
In Lebanon, residents woke to renewed shock after airstrikes hit the southern suburbs of Beirut, prompting school closures and evacuations from villages in the south.
Local observers said many Lebanese people feel they are reliving the destruction of earlier conflicts.
Previous fighting in the region had displaced around 1.2 million people and caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure.
Aid organisation L’Œuvre d’Orient said the latest escalation has left communities shaken, with many families fearful of another prolonged conflict.
Rising tensions across Iraq and the Gulf
Concern has also spread to Iraq, where the Kurdish regional capital Erbil — which hosts American military personnel — has recently faced missile attacks.
Local Christian communities say people are staying indoors as bombardments continue and uncertainty grows.
In the Gulf region, including Bahrain, churches have temporarily suspended public gatherings due to security concerns.
At Sacred Heart Church, Manama, liturgies and religious classes have been moved online to continue providing spiritual support to the local Catholic community.
Church leaders call for dialogue
Church leaders have urged restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar for Southern Arabia, called for “authentic and responsible dialogue,” warning that threats and retaliation only deepen instability.
Religious leaders say peace efforts are urgently needed to avoid further suffering for civilians already affected by years of conflict.
Holy Land communities remain on alert
In the Holy Land, air raid sirens have been sounding frequently as Iranian missiles target Israeli territory.
At the École Biblique et Archéologique Française de Jérusalem, students and clergy have been using underground corridors as temporary shelters during alerts.
Masses for peace have been held using special prayers for times of war.
Meanwhile, tensions continue in parts of the West Bank, where Christian communities say violence and harassment remain ongoing concerns.
Uncertain future for Christians in the region
Observers warn that prolonged conflict could accelerate migration from the Middle East, further reducing the region’s historic Christian populations.
For now, church leaders and local communities say their focus remains on prayer, resilience and hope that diplomatic efforts can bring an end to the violence.