Pope Leo XIV issued a stark moral rebuke during his Palm Sunday homily today, stating that God rejects the prayers of leaders who start wars.
Addressing tens of thousands of pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, the Chicago-born pontiff used the start of Holy Week to call for an end to global hostilities.
The 10-minute address centered on the biblical portrayal of Jesus as the "King of Peace."
The Pope explicitly quoted the Prophet Isaiah, warning leaders that their prayers would go unanswered because their "hands are full of blood."
"Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood," the Pope said, referencing the biblical text in a direct challenge to those overseeing the current conflict with Iran.
Pope Leo XIV, elected in May 2025 after the death of Pope Francis, has increasingly positioned himself as a vocal critic of aerial bombings and global expansionism.
He stated that faith cannot be used to justify political power or violence, noting that Jesus did not arm or defend himself during his trial.
While the Vatican did not name specific officials, international observers noted the timing of the remarks in relation to recent actions by the United States government.
President Donald Trump has overseen a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East, characterized by recent military escalations.
Analysts believe the Pope’s comments specifically target U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Hegseth has recently drawn attention for leading prayer services at the Pentagon, reportedly calling for "overwhelming violence" against adversaries of the state.
The Pope countered this stance by describing such rhetoric as a "false gospel" that contradicts the core tenets of Christian faith.
As the first American to hold the papacy, Leo XIV's critique carries significant weight within the domestic political landscape of the United States.
The Vatican has yet to issue further clarification, but the homily signals a rift between the Holy See and Washington’s defense strategy.
This development comes as several nations continue to call for ceasefires in the region to prevent further escalation.