Pope Leo Condemns Global Arms Trade, Urges Disarmament on Return to Vatican
On July 22, after a 16-day retreat at Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican and spoke candidly with assembled journalists. His message was clear and urgent: “We must encourage everyone to leave weapons behind, and to leave behind the money‑making that is behind every war.” He arrived just before 9 p.m., engaging briefly with reporters before heading back within the Vatican walls.
Weapons and Human Dignity
The Pope emphasized that the arms trade reduces people to “tools without any value.” He insisted the world must repeatedly affirm the dignity of every person—regardless of their faith or nationality—because “we are all God’s children, created in God’s image.” This appeal was both moral and timeless.
When asked about visiting conflict zones like Gaza, he acknowledged his desire to go to places suffering, but cautioned that presence alone is not always sufficient. Instead, he called for the Church’s ongoing moral voice, urging all to abandon not only weapons but also the profit-driven commerce fueling war.
A Working Retreat
About his time in Castel Gandolfo, the Pope described it as a “working holiday.” He joked about the change of scenery but clarified that he never turned away from world events. “Thank God the voice of the Church is still important,” he concluded, underscoring the institution’s role in promoting peace.
