Pope condemns U.S.-Israeli war with Iran

Pontiff says 'God does not bless any conflict' amid ongoing hostilities

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:45pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a solitary Catholic church in a deserted urban setting, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and moral reflection.The Pope's moral condemnation of the ongoing war reflects the somber, reflective mood in many religious communities impacted by the conflict.Rome Today

Pope Leo XIV strongly condemned the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, stating that "God does not bless any conflict" and that the divine does not side with those who engage in bombing campaigns. The Pope made these remarks during a gathering of top bishops of the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq.

Why it matters

The Pope's forceful criticism of the war adds to the growing international condemnation of the conflict, which has drawn concerns about escalating violence and civilian casualties. As a prominent religious leader, the Pope's moral authority carries significant weight in shaping global opinion on the war.

The details

During the gathering of Chaldean bishops in Iraq, Pope Leo XIV stated that "God does not bless any conflict" and that the divine does not favor those who engage in bombing campaigns and other acts of war. The Pope's remarks amplified his previous criticisms of the U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran, which have drawn widespread international concern.

  • Pope Leo XIV made these comments on April 10, 2026 during a meeting with Chaldean Catholic bishops in Iraq.

The players

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope and leader of the Catholic Church, who has been outspoken in his criticism of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.

Chaldean Catholic Church

An Eastern Catholic church based in Iraq that is in full communion with the Holy See.

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What they’re saying

“God does not bless any conflict and certainly does not side with those who drop bombs.”

— Pope Leo XIV, Pope

The takeaway

The Pope's forceful moral condemnation of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran adds to the growing global outcry over the escalating conflict, underscoring the widespread belief that the war is unjustified and harmful to civilian populations.