Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing U.S.-Iran war, denouncing what he described as a "delusion of omnipotence" fueling the conflict. He issued an urgent call for political leaders to cease hostilities and prioritize peace negotiations.

Pope's Address and Concerns

The Pope's pronouncements were made during an evening prayer service at St. Peter's Basilica. This occurred as face-to-face negotiations between the United States and Iran commenced in Pakistan, alongside a fragile ceasefire.

While Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born Pope, did not explicitly name the United States or President Donald Trump in his prayer, the message appeared directed at U.S. officials. He criticized the invocation of religion to justify the war and the display of power.

The prayer service was attended by religious figures including Archbishop of Tehran, Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, and observed by U.S. deputy chief of mission Laura Hochla.

Escalation of Criticism

Pope Leo XIV's stance evolved from initial caution to escalated criticism. Previously, he had made subdued appeals for peace. However, beginning on Palm Sunday, his criticism intensified, culminating in his denunciation of Trump's threat to annihilate Iranian civilization.

He emphasized the urgent need for dialogue to prevail over conflict and called for an end to the worship of self and wealth.

Global Call for Peace

During the Saturday prayer service, Pope Leo XIV urged people of all faiths to pray for peace and to demand an end to the war from their political leaders. The vigil in Rome was mirrored by simultaneous local prayer services globally.

The Pope highlighted prayer as a powerful tool to "break the demonic cycle of evil" and foster a world free of conflict, where weapons and unjust gains are absent. He specifically addressed leaders leveraging religion to support war actions, citing U.S. officials who have cited their Christian faith.

Vatican's Concerns and Stance

The Vatican has particular concerns about the escalating conflict, especially the potential spillover into Lebanon and its impact on Christian communities there. Pope Leo XIV reiterated his belief that God does not bless war, particularly those involving bombings.

The Pope's unwavering message of peace and denunciation of the war reflects the Vatican's commitment to diplomacy. His stance underscores the belief that negotiation is the only path to a just resolution, urging global leaders to prioritize peace.