Pope denounces 'delusion of omnipotence'

In his most pointed remarks since the conflict began, Pope Leo XIV has denounced the use of religion to justify military aggression in the Middle East.

The first American-born pope appeared to target the rhetoric of U.S. and Israeli officials who have framed the war in religious terms.

He urged global leaders to listen to the voices of children in conflict zones and to choose negotiation over destruction.

The pontiff's message coincided with the collapse of high-level peace talks in Pakistan, adding moral weight to the calls for a lasting ceasefire.