Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. He specifically denounced the "delusion of omnipotence" that he believes is fueling the war and called for an immediate end to the violence.

Vatican's Stance on the Conflict

The Pope's remarks were delivered during an evening prayer service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. This service coincided with face-to-face negotiations between the United States and Iran, which commenced on the same day in Pakistan, and while a fragile ceasefire was holding.

While the prayer service was scheduled before the announcement of the peace talks, the Pope's message was widely interpreted as a direct criticism of the rhetoric and actions of U.S. and Israeli officials. He specifically addressed boasts of military superiority and the justification of the war through religious terms.

The presence of Archbishop of Tehran, Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, and the U.S. deputy chief of mission, Laura Hochla, at the service highlighted the international attention on the Vatican's position.

Escalating Condemnation and Calls for Peace

Initially, Pope Leo XIV had issued muted appeals for peace. However, his criticism escalated, beginning on Palm Sunday, and intensified this week with a specific mention of Donald Trump's threat to annihilate Iranian civilization.

During the Saturday evening vigil, Pope Leo XIV urged all people of good will to pray for peace and implore political leaders to end the war. The service included Scripture readings and the recitation of Rosary prayers.

He emphasized that praying for peace is a way to "break the demonic cycle of evil" and foster the "Kingdom of God," where violence and injustice do not prevail. The Pope identified the "delusion of omnipotence" as a dangerous and unpredictable force driving the conflict.

Concerns Over Religious Justification and Regional Stability

The Pope also lamented the use of religion by leaders to justify wartime actions. He cited examples of U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who have invoked their Christian faith to portray the United States as a Christian nation engaged in a holy war.

The Vatican's concerns also extend to the potential spillover of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict into Lebanon, particularly regarding the precarious situation of Christian communities in the south. Vice President JD Vance's statement suggesting Lebanon was not part of the ceasefire deal with Iran further complicates the regional dynamics.

A Solemn Call for Dialogue

Presiding over the service from a white throne, dressed in a red cape and liturgical stole, Pope Leo XIV held a Rosary. The atmosphere in St. Peter's Basilica was one of solemnity and prayer, with many clergy and nuns in attendance fingering their Rosary beads.

The Pope's condemnation serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of the conflict and the importance of seeking peace through dialogue and understanding. The Vatican consistently advocates for diplomacy and peaceful resolution, and this prayer service is a strong manifestation of that commitment.

The prayers and service are intended as a call to action to end the war. The simultaneous occurrence of prayer services worldwide underscores the Pope's emphasis on global participation in the fight for peace.