Pope Leo XIV condemned the use of religion to justify violence amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. He warned that invoking God to support war constitutes a religious war. During a pastoral visit to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Ponte Mammolo, he called for peace. He stressed that disputes cannot be solved through armed conflict. Moreover, he urged leaders to prioritize dialogue instead of fighting.
Historically, some American administrations have used religious rhetoric to justify military campaigns. Today, critics note that the U.S. administration frames military actions as moral battles. Consequently, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the ongoing danger of religious war. The U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran began on February 28, 2026. It caused severe civilian casualties. For instance, a missile strike destroyed a girls’ elementary school in Minab, killing approximately 170 children.
In addition, Gandhi Hospital in Tehran suffered heavy damage. Videos show shattered windows, debris, and the evacuation of patients, including babies in incubators. The hospital’s in-vitro fertilization unit also burned completely. International humanitarian organizations strongly condemned the attacks. For example, World Health Organisation chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the hospital strike extremely worrying. He reminded military forces that medical facilities remain protected under international humanitarian law.
Similarly, UNESCO emphasized that cultural sites like Tehran’s Golestan Palace must remain safe. Furthermore, strikes damaged the Grand Bazaar and the Azadi sports complex. During his weekly Angelus prayer, Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with grieving families. He argued that religious war cannot justify targeting innocent civilians. Therefore, he urged all parties to pursue diplomacy and constructive dialogue.
Experts warn that ignoring international law could escalate the crisis further. Rising civilian casualties increase global pressure on governments to act peacefully. Hence, Pope Leo XIV’s call for morality and adherence to humanitarian principles may influence upcoming negotiations. Religious war remains a central concern as the conflict with Iran continues. Ultimately, Pope Leo XIV reminded the world that peace must guide international action, not violence.