Pope Leo has strongly criticized the ongoing war involving the United States, Israel and Iran as it enters its second month.
According to Reuters, he described the conflict as “horrific” during a speech in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, stressing that religion must not be used to justify war.
The pope said: “God does not accept the prayers of those who wage war, and their hands are stained with blood.”
Without naming specific leaders, he expressed concern over the growing suffering of civilians, particularly Christians in the Middle East.
He had previously called for an immediate ceasefire and described airstrikes as “blind.”
