Pope Leo XIV Condemns 'Delusion of Omnipotence' in U.S.-Israel Conflict with Iran

Pope Leo XIV has strongly criticized the 'delusion of omnipotence' driving the U.S.-Israel conflict in Iran, calling on political leaders to halt hostilities and pursue peace talks. During an evening prayer service at St. Peter’s Basilica, coinciding with U.S.-Iran negotiations in Pakistan and a fragile ceasefire, the Chicago-born pontiff urged an end to the 'idolatry of self and money' and the 'display of power.'

Although he did not explicitly mention the United States or President Donald Trump, Leo's remarks appeared directed at U.S. officials who have justified military actions through religious rhetoric. He emphasized that 'even the holy Name of God, the God of life, is being dragged into discourses of death.'

The service was attended by notable figures, including the Archbishop of Tehran, Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, and U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Laura Hochla. This event marked a significant escalation in Leo's criticism, following earlier condemnations of threats to annihilate Iranian civilization as 'truly unacceptable.'

The Vatican has expressed particular concern over the conflict's impact on neighboring Lebanon and its Christian communities. Leo called on individuals worldwide to pray for peace and reject militarism, stating that such prayers serve as a 'bulwark against that delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive.'