Pope Leo XIV spoke out strongly against what he called the “illusion of absolute power,” arguing it is a factor driving the conflict between the US – Israel and Iran, while calling on leaders to stop and negotiate for peace.

The remarks were made during an evening prayer at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, taking place the same day the US and Iran began direct negotiations in Pakistan and amid a temporary ceasefire.

The Pope did not directly mention the US or Donald Trump, but the message is believed to be directed at leaders who have emphasized military power and used religious elements to justify warfare.

“Enough of the worship of ego and money. Enough of the displays of strength. Enough of war,” he stated.

The Pope called for everyone to pray for peace and demanded that leaders end the conflict. He emphasized that prayer helps break the “negative spiral” and leads toward a world without weapons, drones, or unjust interests.

Earlier in the week, he criticized threats to “wipe out Iranian civilization” as unacceptable and called for dialogue.

The Pope also affirmed that no war is ever blessed, especially actions that inflict harm through force.

The Vatican expressed concern about the risk of the conflict spreading, particularly regarding the situation in Lebanon and the impact on religious communities in the region.

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