Pope Leo XIV has raised concerns over the growing use of raw power in global conflicts and the apparent collapse of respect for international and humanitarian law.
In a recent social media post, he expressed alarm at the way legal principles meant to protect civilians have been ignored in favor of domination and force.
The Pope did not name any countries, but his remarks follow rising calls for an end to Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Human rights groups and United Nations officials have described the situation there as genocidal.
The conflict has caused severe destruction across the Gaza Strip, with over 56,000 people reported killed and nearly the entire population displaced, according to local health sources.
Israel continues to face accusations of breaching humanitarian law.
These include targeting civilian infrastructure, denying aid, and ignoring international court rulings. Despite a judgment from the International Court of Justice that called Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories illegal, there has been little change on the ground.
The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing possible war crimes such as the use of starvation as a weapon.
Still, many Western countries, especially in Europe, maintain trade and military relations with Israel.
Since taking over as pope in May after the death of Pope Francis, Leo has urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
He previously described the suffering of civilians there, especially children, as unbearable.
Alongside Gaza, the Pope’s statement also reflects ongoing violence in Sudan and Ukraine, where civilians continue to face heavy losses and abuse.
His words draw attention to a world where laws designed to protect people in war are often ignored, and where those in power are rarely held to account.