“The World is in the Grip of the Oppressors” — Pope Leo XIV Strongly Criticizes US War Policies
Spiritual Leader of Catholics Declares War, Oppression and Misuse of Religion a Threat to HumanityRome/Yaoundé ) — Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Vatican, has launched a scathing criticism of American war policies, the ongoing conflict with Iran, and the “neo-colonial” attitudes of global powers, declaring that “the world is in the grip of…
Spiritual Leader of Catholics Declares War, Oppression and Misuse of Religion a Threat to Humanity
Rome/Yaoundé ) — Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Vatican, has launched a scathing criticism of American war policies, the ongoing conflict with Iran, and the “neo-colonial” attitudes of global powers, declaring that “the world is in the grip of the oppressors.” He described war, oppression, and the misuse of religion for political ends as the greatest danger to humanity.
Addressing a gathering in Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, the Pontiff told world leaders that the display of power, the delusion of omnipotence, and the idolatry of money have brought the world to the brink of destruction. He specifically targeted US and Israeli military actions against Iran, urging an immediate end to “the madness of war.”
Pope Leo said:
“The world is in the grip of the oppressors. We have seen leaders intoxicated with power who violate international law and threaten to destroy entire civilizations. Using religion as a tool for war and coercion is deeply regrettable. God does not accept the prayers of those whose hands are stained with blood.”
During a special prayer vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica, he strongly condemned the “idolatry of self and money” and “displays of power,” stating, “Enough of war! May the madness of war cease and the Earth be cared for and cultivated by those who still know how to create, safeguard and love life.”
Pope Leo XIV — the first American-born pontiff — described President Trump’s threats to destroy Iranian civilization as “truly unacceptable.” He emphasized that the true message of religion is peace, justice, and the protection of human dignity, not war and oppression.
US President Donald Trump reacted sharply to the Pope’s criticism, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.” However, the Pope made it clear that he fears no administration and will continue to raise his voice against war, calling for dialogue, multilateral relations, and just solutions to global problems.
