Pope Leo XIV condemned war during Palm Sunday Mass, saying God rejects the prayers of leaders who engage in violence and calling for an immediate ceasefire.
Addressing thousands of people in St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo said God “does not listen” to leaders who start wars and have “hands full of blood,” warning Jesus cannot be used to justify conflict.
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) March 29, 2026
As the Iran war enters its second month, he renewed calls for a ceasefire. pic.twitter.com/KtsGGClGrM
Pope Leo XIV has condemned war, saying God rejects the prayers of leaders who engage in violence, as the Iran conflict enters its second month. Speaking during Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff described the ongoing war as “atrocious” and warned against using religion to justify conflict.
Addressing thousands of worshippers, Pope Leo said Jesus represents peace and cannot be used to endorse warfare, adding that prayers from those with “hands full of blood” would not be heard. Though he did not name specific leaders, his remarks come amid reports that some U.S. officials have used Christian language to defend military actions in the region.
The pope also expressed concern for Christians in the Middle East affected by the conflict, warning that many may be unable to celebrate Easter. He reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire and criticised indiscriminate airstrikes, urging world leaders to embrace peace and reject violence.
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