Pope Leo XIV has warned that God does not accept the prayers of leaders who initiate wars, declaring that those responsible for violence approach God with “hands full of blood” as the Iran conflict enters its second month.
Speaking to tens of thousands of worshippers at St Peter’s Square during Palm Sunday, the pontiff delivered a strong message against the use of religion to justify armed conflict.
“This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” he said under bright sunshine at the Vatican.
The pope reinforced his remarks by citing scripture, warning that prayers offered by those engaged in violence are rejected.
“Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood,” he said, referencing biblical teachings.
Although Pope Leo XIV did not name specific leaders, his comments come amid mounting criticism of the ongoing Iran conflict, which he has addressed repeatedly in recent weeks.
The pontiff, known for his measured tone, has consistently called for an immediate ceasefire. He has also condemned military airstrikes as indiscriminate, insisting such actions should be banned.
His remarks follow controversial statements by some US officials who have invoked Christian rhetoric to defend the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran carried out on February 28, which triggered the escalating conflict.
Among them is Pete Hegseth, who recently led Christian prayer services at the Pentagon and prayed for “overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy.”
On Sunday, the pope pointed to the example of Jesus Christ at the moment of his arrest, highlighting a message of peace and non-violence.
“He did not arm himself, or defend himself, or fight any war,” Leo said. “He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence.”
