Pope warns humanity s at risk, in plea to world leaders

The Pope has expressed concern that the future of humanity may be “tragically compromised” due to the failure of international law and political accountability. Speaking in Equatorial Guinea, his remarks seemed to indirectly criticize Donald Trump, who has initiated conflict with Iran and removed the Venezuelan president from power. Recently, Trump responded angrily to the Pope for commenting on his policies, but last week, the Pope stated he did not want to engage in a debate with the US president. Today, the Pontiff emphasized, “The destiny of humanity risks being tragically compromised without a change in political responsibility and without adherence to institutions and international agreements.” He continued, “His [God’s] holy name must not be profaned by the desire to dominate, by arrogance, or by discrimination. Most importantly, it must never be used to justify choices and actions that lead to death.” This statement echoed his earlier comments in March when he mentioned that God does not accept prayers from leaders with “hands full of blood.” Many interpreted this as a critique of US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who used Christian rhetoric to support the war in Iran. The Pope’s remarks on Tuesday coincided with President Trump planning to host a livestreamed Bible reading at the White House. On his first day in the small West African country, the Pope was warmly received by Equatorial Guinea's president, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.