Pope Leo XIV calls for end to ‘madness of war’ as US and Iran begin talks

Pope Leo XIV calls Donald Trump’s threat unacceptable and appeals for peace Jornal Nacional/ Reproduction Pope Leo At a special prayer vigil in St. Peter’s Basilica, the first American pope condemned the use of religious language to justify war and said the “illusion of omnipotence that surrounds us is becoming increasingly unpredictable.” Making a direct appeal to world leaders, he said: “Stop! It’s time for peace! Sit down at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned.” Known for choosing his words carefully, Leão has emerged as an outspoken critic of the war in Iran. See the videos trending on g1 This Saturday, he used strong language to denounce the conflict, citing letters from children in war zones that, according to him, described “horror and inhumanity.” The pope also referenced the Church’s opposition to the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, citing an appeal by the late Pope John Paul II made four days before the conflict began. “No more idolatry of self and money!” said Leo. “No more display of power! No more war!” The pope, who in March said that God rejects the prayers of leaders who start wars and have “hands full of blood”, again denounced this Saturday the use of Christian language to justify war. “The balance within the human family has been severely destabilized,” said Leo. “Even the holy Name of God, the God of life, is being dragged into death talks.” Previous statements by the pope have been interpreted by conservative Catholic commentators as being directed at US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has invoked Christian language to justify joint US and Israeli attacks on Iran. This Saturday’s special prayer service was announced by Leo last Sunday in the pope’s Easter message.

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