‘We are all God’s children,’ Pope Leo condemns global arms trade

Pope Leo XIV has once again condemned the global arms trade, calling on the international community to prioritise peace and the value of human life over profits made from conflict.

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday as he departed his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, the pontiff emphasised the need to break the cycle of violence driven by the global arms trade and war profiteering.

“We must encourage everyone to lay down their arms and abandon the financial motives behind every war,” Pope Leo declared, addressing reporters shortly before returning to the Vatican.

The Pope had spent 16 days at Castel Gandolfo in what he described as a “working holiday”, saying the change of environment was helpful, but that he continued to monitor global events throughout his stay.

“Thank God the voice of the Church is still important,” he said, affirming the Church’s continued commitment to being a beacon of peace and moral guidance in troubled times.

When asked about the possibility of visiting active conflict zones, such as Gaza, Pope Leo acknowledged his desire to go to many places but noted that personal visits are not always the most effective solution.

“There are many places I would like to go, but this is not necessarily the formula for finding an answer,” he said, suggesting that deeper systemic efforts are required to address global conflict.

He went on to highlight the dehumanising effects of war, particularly when driven by the global arms trade and arms industry.

“With the arms trade, people often become just tools, stripped of any value,” the Pope warned.

Pope Leo urged the world to refocus on the inherent dignity of every person, regardless of background or belief. “We must constantly insist on the dignity of every human being, Christian, Muslim, people of all faiths. We are all God’s children, created in His image,” he stressed.

The pontiff’s remarks come amid renewed discussions on global peace efforts and the role of religious leadership in addressing armed conflicts and humanitarian crises.

Reflecting on his retreat, Pope Leo said he appreciated the time away but remained fully engaged. “It was a working holiday,” he noted. “I never stopped following what was happening around the world.”

In closing, the Pope reiterated the Church’s mission to promote peace.

Pope Leo said, “Let us continue this effort. Let us continue to promote peace.”

(Vatican News)

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