World

Pope Leo XIV Condemns Trump's Strikes on Iran: 'War Doesn't Solve Problems'

2025-06-22

Author: Chun

In a powerful denunciation, Pope Leo XIV has lashed out at President Donald Trump's military action against Iran, declaring that "war does not solve problems." The pontiff's remarks came during his weekly address, resonating deeply amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

"Alarming news continues to emerge from the Middle East, especially from Iran," he stated. "Today, humanity urgently calls for peace—a plea that demands responsibility and reason, not drowned out by the clamor of weapons or inflammatory rhetoric that only fuels conflict."

This criticism follows Trump's announcement that the U.S. targeted three of Iran's nuclear facilities, deploying B-2 bombers armed with massive bunker-busting bombs. The decision, aligned with Israel's military actions, has sparked outrage among lawmakers, with Iran promising severe repercussions.

The Vatican's critique comes on the heels of Leo's earlier disapproval of Trump's hardline immigration policies. Having openly challenged both Trump and Vice President JD Vance on social media, Leo has maintained a consistent stance against what he views as detrimental policies since his appointment as pope.

In another pointed remark, Leo emphasized the significance of free journalism, stating, "Wherever a journalist is silenced, the democratic soul of a country is weakened," subtly referencing Trump's contentious relationship with the media.

This military crisis marks the first global conflict to erupt since Leo XIV took the papal mantle last month. Since then, he has consistently advocated for diplomacy over violence amidst global conflicts, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the turmoil in Gaza.

Reflecting on the broader implications of war, Leo asserted, "War amplifies problems and inflicts lasting wounds that take generations to heal. No military triumph can erase the pain suffered by families or the dreams shattered for the youth. May diplomacy prevail over weaponry! May nations pursue paths of peace, steering clear of bloodshed!"