Pope Leo XIV, during a press conference on his return from Africa, urged the United States and Iran to resume peace talks to end the ongoing war, emphasizing the need for a “culture of peace” over violence. He condemned capital punishment, advocating for the respect and protection of human life from conception to natural death. Leo also addressed migration, affirming countries’ rights to control borders but stressing the humane treatment of migrants. He criticized the reduction of the church’s moral teachings to sexual issues and highlighted the importance of addressing root causes of migration in poorer countries. His comments come amid tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump and recent executions in Iran.
QUESTION: How might Pope Leo XIV’s call for a “culture of peace” influence international relations and conflict resolution strategies?
Pope urges US and Iran to return to peace talks, condemns capital punishment
