Pope Leo XIV delivered a forceful condemnation of the US-Israeli war in Iran, denouncing what he called the 'delusion of omnipotence' driving the conflict. Speaking from Rome, the Chicago-born pontiff specifically criticized President Trump's threat to 'annihilate Iranian civilization' as 'truly unacceptable' and called for dialogue to prevail over military action.

During an evening vigil service, Leo urged all people of good will to pray for peace and demand an end to war from their political leaders. The service, which featured Scripture readings and Rosary prayers, was held simultaneously with local prayer services across the United States and internationally. The pope emphasized that praying for peace was a way to 'break the demonic cycle of evil' and build a Kingdom of God where there are no swords, drones, or 'unjust profit.'

Leo has been increasingly vocal in his criticism, stepping up his condemnation starting on Palm Sunday after initially limiting his comments to muted appeals for peace. He has repeatedly stated that God doesn't bless any war, particularly condemning those who drop bombs. The Vatican expressed particular concern about the spillover of Israel's war against Hezbollah in Lebanon, especially regarding the plight of Christian communities in southern Lebanon.