Pope Leo slams ‘delusion of omnipotence’ stoking US-Israeli war on Iran

South China Morning Post DiplomaticNews ReportEN 1 min read 100% complete by Associated PressApril 12, 2026 at 05:25 AM

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Pope Leo condemned the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, citing a "delusion of omnipotence" as the driving force. Speaking at a prayer service in St. Peter's Basilica on Saturday, the Pope's message coincided with the start of US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan. While not directly naming the US or President Trump, his remarks appeared aimed at US officials who have emphasized military strength and used religious justifications for the war. Pope Leo urged leaders to prioritize negotiation and end the "idolatry of self and money," escalating his previous calls for peace after initially offering more restrained appeals. The archbishop of Tehran and a US deputy chief of mission were present at the service.

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Key Claims (4)

AI-Extracted

The US was represented in the diplomatic corps by its deputy chief of mission, Laura Hochla.

factual — Article100% confidence

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

quote — Article, quoting Pope Leo100% confidence

The US and Iran began face-to-face negotiations in Pakistan.

factual — Article100% confidence

Pope Leo denounced the “delusion of omnipotence” that is fueling the US-Israel war on Iran.

factual — Article100% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Laura Hochla 30% Tehran 30% Pakistan 40% Dominique Joseph Mathieu 40% St Peter's Basilica 50% Donald Trump ×370% Israel 70% Iran ×480% United States ×480% Pope Leo ×590%

Keywords

pope leo 100% us-israel war on iran 90% peace negotiations 80% delusion of omnipotence 70% us military superiority 60% political leaders 50% dialogue 50% religious terms 40%