Pope Condemns 'Delusion of Omnipotence' Fueling US-Israel War in Iran

Pontiff calls for political leaders to stop fighting and negotiate peace

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:13am

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A solitary Catholic priest in ceremonial robes stands alone in a dimly lit church sanctuary, the space bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet moral authority and spiritual reflection.As the Vatican escalates its moral condemnation of the ongoing U.S.-Israel war in Iran, the Pope's words carry significant weight in the global effort to seek a diplomatic solution to the conflict.Rome Today

In a strongly worded statement, Pope Leo XIV denounced the 'delusion of omnipotence' that he says is driving the ongoing military conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The Pope called for political leaders to stop the fighting and instead focus on negotiating a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Why it matters

The Pope's comments represent a significant escalation of the Vatican's criticism of the war, which has drawn widespread international condemnation. As a highly influential global religious leader, the Pope's words carry significant moral and political weight, and could put pressure on the warring parties to seek a diplomatic solution.

The details

During an evening prayer service, Pope Leo XIV directly addressed the U.S.-Israel war in Iran, describing it as being fueled by a 'delusion of omnipotence' among political leaders. He called for an end to the 'idolatry of self and money' that he believes is driving the conflict, and demanded that all sides come together to negotiate a peaceful resolution.

  • Pope Leo XIV made the remarks during an evening prayer service on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope and leader of the Catholic Church, known for his outspoken criticism of global conflicts and calls for peace.

United States

One of the primary belligerents in the ongoing military conflict with Iran.

Israel

The other main participant in the war against Iran, in alliance with the United States.

Iran

The target of the military campaign by the U.S. and Israel.

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What they’re saying

“Enough of the idolatry of self and money!”

— Pope Leo XIV, Pope

The takeaway

The Pope's forceful denunciation of the 'delusion of omnipotence' driving the U.S.-Israel war in Iran represents a significant moral and political rebuke that could increase pressure on the warring parties to seek a diplomatic solution to the crisis.