By Our Correspondent

National News – Pope Leo XIV has condemned the recent military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran, insisting that faith must never be used to justify violence.

The Pope made his position known on Friday via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, warning that war contradicts Christian teachings and undermines global peace.

In his message, the Pope declared that followers of Jesus Christ, whom he referred to as the “Prince of Peace,” cannot support violence.

He stated that those who claim to follow Christ should not align with those who “drop bombs” in pursuit of political goals.

According to him, violence does not create stability, democracy, or justice, and “God does not bless any conflict.”

The pontiff also dismissed arguments suggesting that military interventions can lead to freedom or regional stability.

He maintained that true peace comes through patient dialogue and mutual understanding among nations rather than the use of force.

The Vatican’s position contrasts sharply with statements made by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who described the strikes as a “holy necessity.”

Speaking at a prayer gathering in Washington, Hegseth said U.S. forces were carrying out what he described as righteous action and asked for divine support in confronting what he called enemies of justice.

The Pope’s message has since gained attention online, with many interpreting it as a direct challenge to global powers relying on military solutions to resolve geopolitical tensions.