Pope Leo XIV Adds Moral Weight to Global Ceasefire Appeals as Thai–Cambodian Border Crisis Escalates

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 11, 2025) — Pope Leo XIV has issued a solemn appeal for an immediate halt to fighting along the Thai–Cambodian border, adding a powerful moral voice to growing international calls for restraint as violence intensifies.

Speaking during his weekly General Audience on Wednesday, the pontiff said he was “deeply saddened” by reports of renewed clashes that have killed civilians and forced thousands of families to flee, according to CBCP News.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of the renewed conflict along the border between Thailand and Cambodia. There have been casualties, including among civilians, and thousands of people have been forced to leave their homes. I express my closeness in prayer to these dear peoples,” he said.

At the close of the audience, Pope Leo urged both sides “to cease fire immediately and resume dialogue,” lamenting the recurrence of hostilities.

Over the weekend, violence surged along the 800-kilometer frontier as artillery exchanges and reported Thai F-16 airstrikes struck civilian areas, raising fears of wider instability in Southeast Asia.

As the spiritual leader of more than 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide, Pope Leo XIV is regarded as one of the most influential humanitarian figures on the global stage.

The Vatican, which maintains diplomatic relations with more than 180 countries, is known for its behind-the-scenes mediation in conflicts as well as its high-profile public appeals for peace, restraint and the protection of civilians.