Pope Leo on Saturday delivered a strong appeal against global conflicts, calling on world leaders and citizens alike to reject violence and embrace peace, dialogue, and responsible leadership.
Speaking during a prayer vigil for peace at St Peter’s Basilica, the pontiff issued one of his most forceful condemnations yet of the rising wave of wars, particularly in the Middle East.
“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 declared.
The 70-year-old pontiff urged leaders of nations to take decisive steps toward ending hostilities, stressing that the responsibility for peace rests heavily on those in power.
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“Dear brothers and sisters, there are certainly binding responsibilities that fall to the leaders of nations. 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!” he said.
Although he did not mention specific countries or political figures, the pope’s remarks come amid escalating tensions and ongoing conflicts across several regions.
He also called on ordinary citizens worldwide to play a role in promoting peace, urging what he described as the “immense multitude” that rejects war to foster unity within their communities.
“A Kingdom that counters polemics and resignation through friendship and a culture of encounter. Let us believe once again in love, moderation, and good politics,” he said.
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Pope Leo described such a vision as a moral counterweight to what he called a growing “delusion of omnipotence” driving global instability.
“It also was a place with ‘no sword, no drone, no vengeance, no trivialisation of evil, no unjust profit, but only dignity, understanding and forgiveness.’”
Painting a bleak picture of the current global climate, he lamented the continued loss of life in conflicts around the world.
“Where there never seem to be enough graves, for people continue to crucify one another and eliminate life, with no regard to justice and mercy,” he said.
The pope, who succeeded Pope Francis last May, has increasingly spoken out against global violence, including recent criticism of what he described as “senseless and inhuman violence” in the Holy Land.
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He has repeatedly called for de-escalation in the ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, urging a diplomatic resolution to prevent further humanitarian consequences.
