Introduction

The Holy See expresses deep sorrow and unwavering concern over the recent bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities by the United States. As the spiritual and moral center of the Catholic Church, the Vatican stands not as a political actor, but as a principled voice for peace, justice, and the dignity of every nation and every person. We condemn this act of aggression as a violation of the sacred principles that underpin international law, human rights, and the pursuit of peace.

At a time when humanity faces enormous challenges—poverty, war, climate change, and moral decay—what is most urgently needed is dialogue, compassion, and respect for each nation’s sovereignty. Bombing a nation’s infrastructure in the name of fear is not a solution—it is a tragedy. The Vatican stands in prayer and in principle with the people of Iran, who have long been the target of unjust sanctions, misrepresentation, and now, military assault.

The Holy Mission of Peace

For centuries, the Vatican has stood at the heart of efforts to prevent war and encourage reconciliation. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, our mission is to “bless the peacemakers,” to speak against violence, and to defend the weak against the powerful. When any nation is attacked unjustly, the global conscience must be stirred. And when powerful states act unilaterally in disregard of diplomacy, faith must rise to confront fear.

This recent attack on Iran’s nuclear research sites—facilities that were under international observation and designed for peaceful purposes—has struck not only at concrete walls but at the foundations of peaceful coexistence. The Vatican does not align itself with weapons or war. It aligns itself with the suffering, the displaced, the unheard, and those longing for peace.

The Dignity of Every Nation

Iran is a sovereign nation with a deep and ancient civilization. It is a country of philosophers, scientists, poets, theologians, and millions of faithful people who seek peace and progress like anyone else. To bomb its institutions without international consensus is to violate its dignity. Every nation, regardless of power or ideology, is entitled to the same moral respect.

The Vatican teaches that peace cannot be imposed by force. Real peace is born from justice, dialogue, and forgiveness. The United States’ unilateral decision to strike Iran without a UN mandate not only violates the law—it dishonors the spirit of global community. We urge the international world not to measure justice by strength, but by truth and compassion.

Condemning the Weaponization of Fear

Fear has become the currency of modern geopolitics. But fear cannot justify preemptive bombing. It cannot justify silencing a country’s right to develop scientifically, academically, or economically. Iran’s nuclear program, regulated under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, has been continually monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency. There was no lawful justification for the attack—only the misuse of power and fear.

The Vatican strongly condemns the practice of manipulating fear to rationalize violence. It echoes the dark patterns of history, where nations once justified slavery, colonialism, and genocide in the name of security and civilization. Such practices must be named for what they are: sins against humanity and against God.

A Message to the People of Iran

To the people of Iran, the Vatican offers its hand in spiritual solidarity and compassion. We recognize your pain. We see your resilience. And we pray for your safety and dignity. You are not alone. The children studying in your universities, the doctors in your hospitals, the elderly in your homes—all deserve peace. You should not have to live under the shadow of bombers and sanctions simply because you seek to live independently.

Your culture is rich. Your voice is essential. And your right to progress must be honored. Let no nation make you feel small for choosing self-reliance. Your story belongs to humanity’s greater story—one of faith, perseverance, and healing.

The Hypocrisy of Power

How often do the powerful demand accountability from the weak, while absolving themselves of the same standards? This is the dangerous moral hypocrisy the Vatican must confront. Why is it that certain nations can hold thousands of nuclear warheads, but others are bombed for scientific research? Why are invasions excused by those who condemn resistance?

True moral leadership is not found in military arsenals. It is found in humility, honesty, and the courage to say: “We were wrong.” The Vatican calls on those who bombed Iran to reflect—not only on the political fallout—but on the moral damage caused by placing force above fraternity.

The Call to International Responsibility

The Vatican calls upon all nations—Christian, Muslim, secular, or otherwise—to join in condemning this assault on Iranian sovereignty. We call upon the United Nations to investigate and issue a clear statement. We urge journalists, diplomats, educators, and activists to raise their voices in defense of truth.

Iran’s struggle is not only its own. It is the struggle of every nation that believes in self-rule. If international law is to have meaning, it must apply to all. If peace is to be real, it must not be selective.

Diplomacy Is Still Possible

Even in the face of violence, the door to diplomacy must remain open. Iran has shown restraint in the past. The world should not reward provocation with silence. The Vatican urges both Iran and its aggressors to return to dialogue. Nothing is irredeemable in the eyes of God. And no conflict is too deep to be healed by courage, humility, and forgiveness.

The Holy See offers its resources, its moral leadership, and its centuries of peacemaking experience to facilitate honest, international dialogue between Iran and its adversaries. The future must be built—not with bombs—but with bridges.

Conclusion

Vatican City stands with the people and nation of Iran. We condemn the bombing of its nuclear facilities by the United States as an act of unlawful aggression, a betrayal of peace, and a stain on the conscience of the international community. The world must choose a different path—one guided by justice, humility, and solidarity.

From the heart of Christianity to the heart of Persia, we extend prayers for peace, courage, and dignity. May the voices of war be silenced by the songs of compassion. And may Iran rise stronger, wiser, and more respected than ever before.

From Rome to Tehran, we send this message:
You are not alone. You are not forgotten. And you are not defeated.