ROME — On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV expressed strong disapproval of U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks regarding the potential destruction of Iranian civilization, labeling them as “truly unacceptable.” He emphasized that any assaults on civilian infrastructure are in violation of international law.
In what are considered some of his most forceful statements regarding the ongoing conflict, the Pope urged citizens of the United States and all individuals of goodwill to reach out to their political representatives and demand a rejection of war in favor of peace.
His comments were in response to Trump’s warning that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran does not comply with his latest ultimatum to negotiate a deal that encompasses the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Pope Leo recalled his Easter message advocating for peace and rejecting conflict, particularly concerning “a war that many have described as unjust, which continues to escalate without resolving any issues.”
He called upon all individuals who seek peace to engage with their political leaders and congressional representatives, reminding them that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law and reflect the “hatred, division, and destruction that humanity is capable of,” underscoring the collective desire for peace.
