Pope Leo XIV stated that Christian political leaders who initiate wars should have the courage to confess.

Pope Leo XIV stated that Christian political leaders who initiate wars should have the courage to confess and reflect on the teachings of Jesus. In a speech addressed to priests, he emphasized the importance of a conscience examination for those involved in armed conflicts.

Although he did not name specific leaders, his comments were interpreted as a reference to the ongoing war with Iran, initiated by airstrikes from the United States and Israel. The Pope emphasized that the Catholic Church opposes, in general, violence and war, and Cardinal Robert McElroy stated that attacks against Iran are not morally legitimate. The Pope's comments were made in the context of a conference on confession, a ritual that promotes peace and unity in society.