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Pope Criticizes Prayer for War Amid Middle East Conflict

4/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Americans to pray for victory in the Middle East, invoking Jesus Christ.
Pope Leo XIV criticized using Christianity for domination and urged dialogue and peace.
He condemned violence in Iran and warned against prayers for war, saying Jesus rejects such prayers.
The pope has maintained a cautious approach to U.S. politics and recently spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, stressing dialogue for peace.

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Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Americans to pray for victory in the Middle East, invoking Jesus Christ.
Pope Leo XIV criticized using Christianity for domination and urged dialogue and peace.
He condemned violence in Iran and warned against prayers for war, saying Jesus rejects such prayers.
The pope has maintained a cautious approach to U.S. politics and recently spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, stressing dialogue for peace.