Pope Leo XIV delivered a poignant address at the Spanish parliament, highlighting the failure of negotiations as a ‘painful defeat’ amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. His speech, the first by a pontiff at the Cortes Generales, underscored the importance of resolving disputes through diplomatic means and international law.
Pope’s Call for Peace
The Pope’s remarks come at a critical time as Israel and Iran engage in their worst exchange of strikes since the April truce. Pope Leo XIV, known for his opposition to the conflict, met with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who has also opposed the United States and Israel’s involvement in the Iran war. The Pope’s stance has drawn criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has clashed with Sánchez over the issue.
In his address, Pope Leo XIV stated, ‘Every war constitutes, ultimately, a painful defeat of the capacity to negotiate and also of that shared conscience of humanity that recognizes bonds of justice between nations.’ He emphasized the need for ‘diplomatic courage, ethical responsibility’ and urged nations to resolve disputes peacefully.
Addressing Global Challenges
The Pope also touched on broader global issues, warning against increased European military spending and highlighting the plight of immigrants. He praised Spain’s historical contributions to human rights, stressing the ‘inviolable dignity’ of every person, including immigrants. ‘The affirmation of human dignity cannot remain abstract when so many people are forced to leave everything behind in search of peace, security, and a future,’ he said.
Migration is a key theme of Pope Leo’s visit to Spain, with plans to visit the Canary Islands to support immigrants entering Europe. He called for a ‘moral renewal’ in Spain’s polarized political landscape, urging politicians to ‘disarm language’ and avoid disparagement of adversaries.
The Pope’s speech was met with applause, reflecting the deep political divisions in Spain, where Sánchez’s left-wing government faces challenges from rising conservative voices like the nationalist-populist party Vox.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
