During an evening exchange at Castel Gandolfo, the pope expressed urgent moral alarm over rising US Iran tensions, hinting at a direct appeal to Washington for negotiations.
In Rome, on Tuesday evening, during a conversation set against the wind-swept backdrop of Castel Gandolfo, I asked Pope Leo XIV about the possible escalation of the conflict in the Middle East and his message to President Donald Trump and other leaders of the United States and Israel.
He answered clearly. The first American pontiff spoke in English and expressed the hope that Trump would find a path to end the war with Iran. Leo called for an end to violence and for negotiations.
It is noted that popes rarely mention world leaders by name, and this is one of the first occasions when Leo publicly mentions Trump. His reply underscored how weighty this war is for him, and he spoke in a language that would be easily understood in the White House.
Leo’s Position on the War and Divine Justification
Although Leo does not have a reputation as a confrontational figure, he is increasingly voicing concerns about the war between the United States and Iran. The conversation reveals a paradox: a seemingly clearly interpreted rhetoric in which military actions are allegedly justified under God’s guidance uses biblical motifs.
“Jesus is the King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war.”
– Pope Leo XIV
Marcello Nieri, Italian theologian and philosopher, in an article for the Appia Institute, expressed the view: “Obviously, the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church sharply opposes the logic of violence justified in the name of the God of Hegseth.”
“Obviously, the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church sharply opposes the logic of violence justified in the name of the God of Hegseth.”
– Marcello Nieri
According to Archbishop McElroy of Washington, with deep experience in the moral norms of foreign policy, the war does not align with Catholic teaching on just war. Likewise Archbishop Timothy Broglio, responsible for military service, expressed doubts about the legitimacy of war under the existing threat, emphasizing that the response must be proportionate and measured.
Historical Parallels and Prospects
The start of his pontificate coincided with a period of global trials related to war. Recently, Leo has sought ways to act as a mediator in international crises and to lend a voice for peace on the world stage. Some observers compare him to John Paul II during anti-war debates of past years; others note that the reaction of Trump supporters could complicate how his positions are perceived.
Among Ahmari’s expressions there are views that support for war by certain groups is perceived as an attempt to use religion to justify the conflict. At the same time, the Pope himself and his contemporaries emphasize the need for peace and diplomatic avenues for resolving crises.
“The last time the Roman Pontiff spoke so hesitantly against war, it was Saint John Paul II before Iraq.”
– Sohrab Ahmari
Today Leo, around seventy years old, remains an influential voice in a changing global landscape. His blend of gentleness and resolve could serve as an example of moderation and a commitment to peace for future generations, and his spirit focused on reconciliation continues to shape his mission amid global tension.