Pope Condemns Iran War, Demands Peace Negotiations
Pope Leo XIV has issued his strongest condemnation yet of the “delusion of omnipotence” he believes is fueling the US-Israel war in Iran, demanding political leaders halt hostilities and negotiate for peace.
The pontiff presided over an evening prayer service in St Peter’s Basilica at the weekend, coinciding with the start of face-to-face negotiations between the United States and Iran in Pakistan, as a fragile ceasefire held.
While the first US-born Pope did not explicitly name Trump in his prayer, which was planned before the talks were announced, his tone and message appeared directly aimed at Trump and US officials.
According to the Pope, prayer for peace is “a bulwark against that delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive.”
The first US-born pope said: “Even the holy Name of God, the God of life, is being dragged into discourses of death.”
Addressing world leaders who decide to go to war, Leo said: “To them we cry out: stop! It is time for peace! Sit at the table of dialogue and mediation – not at the table where rearmament is planned and deadly actions are decided.”
“Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war! True strength is shown in serving life,” he added.
While the pope did not explicitly mention the US-Israeli war with Iran, or name any single country or president, his words will be read as his strongest condemnation yet of a conflict the US defense secretary, Pete Hegseth has cast as a sacred struggle.
The pope’s remarks came during face-to-face negotiations between US and Iranian delegations in Pakistan to shore up a fragile truce and put a permanent end to hostilities.
