Bishop Martinelli Says War and Weapons Will Never Bring Solutions, Calls for Dialogue and Peace

Bishop Paolo Martinelli, OFM Cap., Vicar Apostolic of Southern Arabia, has renewed his call for peace and dialogue as the Middle East continues to face conflict and heightened tensions.

In an interview with Vatican News, Bishop Martinelli spoke about the impact of the conflict on Christian communities across the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Yemen. He also reflected on Pope Leo XIV's repeated appeals for peace and his call for nations to pursue a “disarmed and disarming” peace.

Martinelli said the past several months had been difficult for Christian communities in the region, but praised the faithful for remaining committed to the Church and supporting one another during challenging circumstances.

Following the outbreak of attacks, the bishop said he encouraged Christians to pray together, assist people facing difficulties such as job losses and follow guidance from local authorities. Churches also increased the number of Masses to allow people to participate while limiting large gatherings.

Christians Continue to Witness Through Faith

Martinelli also highlighted the position of Christians living in countries where Muslims form the overwhelming majority and where public proclamation of the Gospel is restricted.

He said Christians can continue to express their faith through their daily lives, relationships, dialogue and personal witness.

According to the bishop, maintaining authentic relationships and engaging respectfully with others can provide an important Christian witness even in difficult circumstances.

Pope Leo XIV's Message on Peace

Reflecting on Pope Leo XIV's remarks at the Rimini Meeting, Martinelli highlighted the importance of love for the Church, unity and communion among Christians.

He said these themes are particularly significant for a Church made up of people from different cultures, languages and traditions.

The bishop also welcomed the Pope's call to “disarm” words, minds and nations and his criticism of the continuing arms race.

'Weapons Will Never Lead to Solutions'

Martinelli stressed that weapons cannot resolve conflicts and argued that patience, dialogue and a shared commitment to peace offer the only sustainable path forward.

He said Pope Leo XIV's emphasis on a peace that is both disarmed and disarming is particularly important in a region where the consequences of conflict are being felt directly.

The bishop urged people to keep the pursuit of peace and dialogue at the centre of their daily lives, stressing that peaceful coexistence requires patience and a willingness to build understanding between communities.