Pope Leo XIV condemns weaponization of religion amid mounting war tensions

Pope Leo XIV issued a passionate appeal for peace during evening prayers at St. Peter's Basilica, decrying the use of religious justification for war. While he did not name nations directly, his sharp criticism of “idolatry of self and money” and “delusion of omnipotence” appeared aimed at the United States and its leadership. His remarks come as U.S.-Iran peace talks continue in Pakistan, and during escalating conflicts in the Middle East involving Israel and Hezbollah. The pontiff urged leader