Pope Leo XIV blasts ‘delusion of omnipotence’ fueling the US-Israeli war in Iran

Associated Press (AP) DiplomaticNews ReportEN 5 min read 100% complete April 11, 2026 at 07:23 PM

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In April 2026, Pope Leo XIV strongly condemned the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war in Iran, criticizing the "delusion of omnipotence" fueling the conflict and urging political leaders to pursue peace negotiations. Presiding over a prayer vigil in St. Peter's Basilica, the Pope's message, though not explicitly mentioning the U.S. or President Trump, appeared directed at U.S. officials who have justified the war with claims of military superiority. The prayer service coincided with the start of face-to-face negotiations between the U.S. and Iran in Pakistan and a fragile ceasefire. While initially hesitant to directly condemn the violence, Pope Leo XIV has recently increased his criticism, calling for dialogue and denouncing threats against Iranian civilization. Simultaneous prayer services were held in the U.S. and other locations.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

An evening vigil in Rome was taking place as simultaneous local prayer services were being held in the U.S. and beyond.

factual — AP100% confidence

Leo said Trump’s threat to annihilate Iranian civilization was “truly unacceptable”.

factual — AP100% confidence

History’s first U.S.-born pope didn’t mention the United States or President Donald Trump in his prayer.

factual — AP100% confidence

The United States and Iran began face-to-face negotiations in Pakistan.

factual — AP100% confidence

Pope Leo XIV denounced the “delusion of omnipotence” that is fueling the U.S.-Israel war in Iran.

factual — AP100% confidence

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Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Pakistan 30% Dominique Joseph Mathieu 30% Tehran 30% Vatican 40% St. Peter's Basilica ×250% Donald Trump ×260% Israel 60% Iran ×370% United States ×580% Pope Leo XIV ×690%

Keywords

us-israeli war in iran 100% pope leo xiv 90% peace negotiations 80% delusion of omnipotence 70% prayer vigil 60% ceasefire 50% political leaders 50% dialogue 40%