The Pope Leon during a peace vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Credit: Filippo MONTEFORTE / AFP
One of the most vehement criticisms made by the Vatican to date. Pope Leon XIV denounced ongoing armed conflicts around the world during a prayer vigil for peace at St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, April 11, decrying the greed behind these wars. “Enough of idolatry of self and money! Enough of displays of power! Enough with war! True strength is shown in serving life,” declared the pontiff.
As negotiations continue in Pakistan for a truce between Iran and the United States, war persists in Ukraine, and Gaza denounces new Israeli strikes, the Pope called on billions of people worldwide to embrace peace and “believe again in love, moderation, and good politics.”
While not mentioning any specific country or political leader, this remains one of the Vatican’s most vehement criticisms of conflicts in the world.
“There are certainly imperative responsibilities that fall to the leaders of nations. We cry out to them: Stop! It is time to make peace! Sit at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned and deadly actions are decided!” continued the Pope.
The pontiff declared that faith was necessary “to face together this dramatic moment in history.”
