WANA (May 12) – Pope Leo XIV has awarded the Vatican’s highest diplomatic honor to Mohammad Hossein Mokhtari, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Holy See.

 

The Papal Order of Pius IX (Piano Order) is a prestigious honor of the Holy See, established in 1847 by Pope Pius IX. Ranked among the Vatican’s most distinguished knighthoods, it is typically conferred upon ambassadors and prominent figures who have played a significant role in strengthening diplomatic ties and serving the cause of peace and dialogue.

 

According to a report by the Iranian Embassy, this honor was bestowed upon the Iranian envoy at a time when Pope Leo XIV has recently taken firm stances condemning the aggressions of the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran.

 

These positions are seen as being closely linked to the ongoing efforts of the Iranian Embassy in the Vatican to promote messages of peace, justice, and opposition to warmongering.

Pope Leo XIV Bestows Vatican’s Highest Diplomatic Honor upon Iranian Ambassador