Pope Leo Calls for Peace, Urges Leaders to Reject War and Ambition

By Skika Reporter

Pope Leo used his Easter Sunday message to call on world leaders to put an end to ongoing conflicts and abandon pursuits of power, conquest, and domination.

Addressing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff warned that societies are becoming increasingly desensitized to violence, noting that many people are beginning to accept it with indifference.

He issued a strong appeal, urging those with weapons to lay them down and calling on those in positions of authority to choose peace over war.

The message, known as the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, was notably brief and did not reference any specific conflicts. Instead, the pope focused on the broader need for peace, drawing on the Easter story as a symbol of nonviolence, emphasizing that Christ responded to suffering without aggression.

He encouraged the faithful to reject desires for conflict and domination, and to pray for peace in a world deeply affected by war.

In recent weeks, Pope Leo has taken a more vocal stance against global violence, particularly criticizing the Iran conflict. During the Easter vigil the previous evening, he urged people not to become numb to widespread suffering, but to actively work toward peace.

Earlier in the week, he made a rare direct appeal to Donald Trump, encouraging efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Iran war.

Delivering his message from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, decorated with vibrant flowers, the pope also extended Easter greetings in multiple languages. He concluded by announcing a special prayer vigil for peace to be held on April 11.