I am not a Catholic, but coming to Pope Leo XIV’s remarks regarding the current war in the Middle East, I find myself standing firmly with him.
The Pope’s position against this war is not just a religious one, it is a moral stand that every peace-loving person should agree with. I salute you, Pope Leo XIV.
Actually, this should not be called an “Iran war”. It is more accurate to call it an “American-Israel war”. It is all Western media framing the narrative and making Iran appear as the aggressor. But in reality, this conflict reflects a pattern we have always seen: Powerful nations shaping global narratives to justify actions that would, otherwise, be difficult to defend under international law.
On this war, I have already taken a clear position that it was not necessary. It is an attempt to force regime change, which goes against established principles of international law and global peace, that is a very dangerous precedent. It is, in my view, a major miscalculation. The consequences will not be short-term. With this conflict, the world will no longer be the same, it has been deeply damaged.
What is even more concerning is how some of our local activists are celebrating this war. This reflects a worrying gap in understanding global political dynamics. Activism should be grounded in justice, truth, non-violence, and a deep awareness of how global power operates. Supporting a war that is leading to deaths of thousands of innocent women and children is misguided activism.
We are already seeing the economic effects of this war being felt even here at home. Rising costs, pressure on food systems, and growing uncertainty are not abstract concepts; they are our daily realities. This war has disrupted global supply chains, placing further strain on already vulnerable economies. It is, therefore, deeply troubling to see anyone, especially those claiming to advocate for justice supporting a conflict that is clearly harming ordinary people across the world.
Back to Pope Leo XIV. I believe his position is both courageous and necessary. He has reminded the world that war must never be glorified. His stand aligns with long-standing Catholic teaching on war and non-violence, which holds that peace is the highest calling.
Honestly, you do not need to be Catholic to appreciate Pope Leo’s bold message. What you need is a commitment to making the world a better place. Peace is not a religious idea alone, it is a human responsibility. When a global moral leader like Pope Leo speaks peace over violence, it is our duty to listen and act.
We must also see the deeper issue at play. Iran is not just a political entity, it is a civilisation with a rich history that stretches back thousands of years. To speak about destroying such a nation simply because one is a super power is dangerous. Destroying this civilisation is not about destroying infrastructure, it is about destroying women and children, it is about wiping out humanity. Who could glorify or celebrate this?
I cannot help but reflect that if Pope Leo had come to Malawi during his recent African visit, perhaps our local activists would have learnt from him. It is a serious anomaly to celebrate this war while claiming the mantle of activism. Activists should not be warmongers.
Pope Leo XIV must be hailed for openly speaking his mind with moral conviction. At times, standing for what is right requires the courage to stand alone, I have experienced this myself but that is the true spirit of leadership and faith.
Thank you Pope Leo XIV for boldly speaking out and standing on behalf of all peace advocates.
