Pope Leo XIV condemns Hegseth's prayers for violence, emphasizing that Jesus cannot justify war.

Pope Leo XIV launched a harsh criticism of American leaders, especially Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who expressed a desire for violence against enemies. During a liturgy on Palm Sunday, the Pope stated that God does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war and condemned the actions of the United States and Israel against Iran, calling the war 'atrocious.' He emphasized that Jesus, the prince of peace, rejects violence and cannot be used to justify war. The Pope quoted a biblical passage stating that God does not listen to the prayers of those with bloodstained hands. His criticism comes in a context where leaders from various corners of the world have used religion to justify violent actions. The Pope also called for a ceasefire and expressed regret that Christians in the region cannot celebrate Easter. The recent incident in which Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa was prevented from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem sparked international reactions, and the Pope highlighted the importance of religious freedom.