When Faith Is Weaponized: Pope Leo’s Warning to World Leaders

Pope Leo on Thursday criticized political leaders who use religion to legitimize war or promote nationalist agendas, describing such actions as blasphemy — a grave offense that dishonors God.

Although the first U.S.-born pope did not mention any leaders by name, his message ahead of the Catholic Church’s World Day of Peace on Jan. 1 urged believers to reject the manipulation of faith for political purposes.

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Warning Against Misuse of Faith

“It is deeply troubling that religious language is increasingly being pulled into political conflicts, used to sanctify nationalism, and employed to defend violence and armed conflict,” the pope said.

He emphasized that people of faith must actively challenge these abuses, especially by living in ways that reflect peace, responsibility, and moral integrity.

Concerns Over Artificial Intelligence in Warfare

In the same four-page annual message, Pope Leo also raised serious concerns about the growing role of artificial intelligence in warfare.

He warned that political and military leaders are increasingly avoiding responsibility by allowing machines to make life-and-death decisions, calling this a dangerous departure from the moral and legal principles that underpin human civilization.

Continued Opposition to Religious Violence

Since his election in May following the death of Pope Francis, Leo has repeatedly spoken about the risks posed by artificial intelligence.

He has also consistently condemned violence carried out in the name of religion. During his first overseas trip to Turkey last month, he urged Christian leaders in the Middle East to firmly reject the use of faith to justify war, violence, or extremism.

Alarm Over Rising Global Military Spending

The pope further expressed concern over increasing global military expenditures.

Citing figures from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, he noted that worldwide defense spending rose by 9.4% in 2024, reaching $2.7 trillion — equivalent to 2.5% of global gross domestic product.