In a pointed Palm Sunday homily at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV issued a sharp rebuke widely interpreted as a direct response to the religious rhetoric used by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to justify military actions in Iran.

 

‘Your hands are full of blood’: Pope Leo REBUKES Hegseth’s war prayers

In a pointed Palm Sunday homily at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV issued a sharp rebuke widely interpreted as a direct response to the religious rhetoric used by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to justify military actions in Iran.

 

The Pope's Rejection of "War Prayers"

During the March 29, 2026, Mass, Pope Leo XIV—the first American-born pontiff—emphasized that Jesus is the "King of Peace" who rejects war. His most forceful remarks centered on the idea that faith cannot be used to justify violence:

 

Refusal of Prayers: The Pope stated that God "does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them".

Biblical Rebuke: Quoting the prophet Isaiah (1:15), he added, "Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood".

"Enlisted in Darkness": He warned that "God cannot be enlisted in darkness" by those using His name to justify "choices of death".

 

Context: Pete Hegseth’s Rhetoric

The Pope’s comments followed a series of public religious invocations by Secretary Hegseth regarding the ongoing conflict:

Prayers for Violence: Hegseth recently led a worship service at the Pentagon where he prayed for "overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy".

Divine Providence: He previously claimed that U.S. troops in Iran are shielded by "divine providence" and has often used the Crusader battle cry "Deus Vult" (God wills it).

Mission of Victory: Hegseth has urged Americans to pray "on bended knee" for a military victory "in the name of Jesus Christ".

 

Official U.S. Response

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the administration's stance, stating there is nothing wrong with leaders calling for prayer for service members during "turbulent times". She described the practice as "noble" and noted that many troops appreciate the spiritual support.