• Pope Leo XIV criticized the U.S.-Israel war in Iran as a 'delusion of omnipotence'.
• The Pope urged political leaders to stop fighting and negotiate peace.
• A prayer service coincided with U.S.-Iran face-to-face negotiations in Pakistan.
• Leo condemned the use of religion to justify war, stating God does not bless violence.
• The Vatican is concerned about the war's impact on Christian communities in Lebanon.

Pope Leo XIV, in his strongest denunciation yet, addressed the ongoing U.S.-Israel war in Iran, labeling it a “delusion of omnipotence” that must be confronted. His remarks were made during an evening prayer service at St. Peter’s Basilica, coinciding with U.S.-Iran negotiations in Pakistan and a fragile ceasefire. The Pope's message, though not directly mentioning any leaders, appeared targeted at President Donald Trump and U.S. officials who promote military superiority as a justification for war. “Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!” he stated, urging political leaders to pursue peace negotiations instead of conflict, according to latimes, NPR, and SCMP.

The prayer service was attended by notable figures including the archbishop of Tehran and representatives from the U.S. diplomatic corps. Initially hesitant to speak out against the violence, Pope Leo intensified his criticism following Palm Sunday, specifically highlighting Trump’s threats towards Iran as “truly unacceptable.” He stressed the importance of dialogue as a means to prevent further escalation, calling for individuals to stand for peace and demand similar resolutions from their leaders, according to latimes, NPR, and SCMP.

During the vigil, Pope Leo emphasized that prayer should be directed toward breaking the “demonic cycle of evil,” fostering instead a Kingdom of God devoid of violence and profit from warfare. He criticized the use of religious justification in conflict, claiming that even the divine name is being misappropriated for violent discourse. This sentiment resonates deeply amidst concerns regarding the humanitarian impact of the U.S.-Israeli war, particularly the spillover effects on Christian communities affected by the conflict in Lebanon, according to latimes, NPR, and SCMP.