Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, Archbishop of Tehran-Isfahan of the Latins, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence between Israel and Iran.
Newsroom, June 14, 2025, Gaudium Press – Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, Archbishop of Tehran-Isfahan of the Latins, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence between Israel and Iran, urging dialogue and prayer to avert a broader Middle East conflict. His remarks to AsiaNews follow Israel’s overnight strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory drone attacks on June 13, 2025, which have heightened fears of regional instability.
Escalation of Hostilities
Israel’s Operation Rising Lion targeted Iranian nuclear and military sites, including key figures like Hossein Salami, head of the Revolutionary Guards. Israel justified the strikes as preemptive, citing Iran’s advancing nuclear program and threats against its existence. The International Atomic Energy Agency’s June 12, 2025, censure of Iran for violating non-proliferation obligations—the first in nearly two decades—underscored these concerns.
Iran retaliated with 100 drones targeting Israeli cities, claiming civilian casualties from Israel’s strikes. The United Nations Security Council met urgently on June 13, while IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warned of the catastrophic risks of targeting nuclear facilities. Meanwhile, Iran’s refusal to join the sixth round of nuclear talks in Oman signals a breakdown in diplomatic efforts.
A Plea for Dialogue and Prayer
“It is with regret that we observe in these last few hours, once again, that peace is sought through preventive attacks instead of committing to dialogue around the negotiating table,” Cardinal Mathieu told AsiaNews. “We pray that peace through dialogue based on a consensus will prevail. May the Holy Spirit guide this process.”
Appointed by Pope Francis to sustain the Christian presence in Iran, Cardinal Mathieu, who participated in the conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV, emphasized the role of prayer in navigating this crisis. Reflecting on Iran’s 22,000 Catholics within a population of 84 million, predominantly Shiite Muslims, he highlighted the community’s resilience and hope, especially during the ongoing Jubilee Year. “Among Iranian Catholics, there is great hope, combined with incredible anticipation,” he said.
The Christian Presence in Iran
Iran’s Constitution (Article 13) guarantees Christians, Zoroastrians, and Jews the right to worship and parliamentary representation, though practicing faith remains challenging. Cardinal Mathieu described Iran’s Catholic community—comprising Latin, Chaldean, Armenian, and other rites—as marked by “the cross and hope.” He recalled Pope Francis’ legacy of fostering dialogue with Muslim leaders, noting a November 2024 symposium with Shiite scholars from Qom as a step toward inclusion.
“Pope Francis opened many doors,” Mathieu said, expressing confidence in Pope Leo XIV’s ability to build on this foundation. “In the election, the Holy Spirit guided us on the right path,” he added, praising the new pontiff’s potential to navigate complex interfaith dynamics.
A Call to Action
Cardinal Mathieu underscored prayer as essential for peace, particularly in a nation where “many things cannot be resolved except through prayer.” He urged Catholics to embody the synodal spirit of inclusion, reaching out to Iran’s diverse society. Recalling his mission, he noted sending a “good friar” to foster integration and connection, reflecting Pope Francis’ vision of open doors.
Even in regions like Iran, where papal visits remain elusive, Mathieu emphasized preserving positive relationships and recognizing cultural richness. “There are people who maintain a link with those outside, who cannot enter but pray in front of these closed doors,” he said, advocating for peace through interfaith solidarity.
As the Middle East teeters on the brink of wider conflict, Cardinal Mathieu’s call for dialogue, prayer, and hope resonates as a beacon for Iran’s small but steadfast Catholic community.
Raju Hasmukh with data sources
- AsiaNews, Interview with Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, June 13, 2025.
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Censure of Iran, June 12, 2025.
- United Nations Security Council, Emergency Meeting Notes, June 13, 2025.
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