Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to violence in the Middle East and cautioned against invoking Jesus’ name for war, contrasting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent call for Americans to pray for military victory.

In a Holy Thursday homily at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the pope said that the Christian mission has often been “distorted by a desire for domination, entirely foreign to the way of Jesus Christ.”

He emphasised that God’s example is one of liberation and giving life, not domination or destruction.

Since the US and Israel began bombing Iran in late February, the pope has consistently advocated for dialogue to resolve the conflict.

He warned that prayers offered for violence are rejected by Jesus, reiterating that Christianity should not be used to justify war.

Though careful not to directly confront US politics, the pope has used his influence indirectly, encouraging US bishops to support humanitarian causes.

He has not spoken directly to US officials about the conflict but did hold a phone call with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, stressing the need for dialogue and a “just and lasting peace” in the region, according to the Vatican.