A biblical directive warns against harming those chosen for divine purposes. Historically, the Pope, as the head of the Roman Catholic Church, serves as a chief advocate for peace and love, embodying Christ's teachings.
Jesus Christ himself was a paramount proponent of peace, famously saying, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you." His role as the 'Prince of Peace' underscores the importance of this message.
In the current global climate, pronouncements promoting peace might seem outdated to those profiting from conflict. Yet, the Pope's duty remains to speak truth to power, irrespective of the consequences. Pope Leo XIV, a figure known for championing the cause of the poor and refugees, has demonstrated that his dedication to truth and human dignity transcends political and national boundaries, particularly as the first American Pope.
Last year, the Pope called for a serious re-evaluation of how migrants are treated in the United States, urging clergy to provide protection and expressing dismay over access to communion being denied to migrants in detention centers.
Furthermore, the Pope voiced concerns that U.S. military actions, such as bombing Venezuelan ships suspected of drug trafficking, could escalate regional tensions. Speaking directly in English to the American audience, he reiterated the Church's stance that welcoming strangers is a fundamental aspect of Christian life.
He strongly denounced former President Trump's threats to bomb Iran, labeling such rhetoric as "truly unacceptable" and advocating for diplomatic solutions over military confrontation.
The Trump administration reportedly responded by summoning the Papal Nuncio, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, to the Pentagon, a deviation from usual diplomatic channels. This action is interpreted by some as an attempt to intimidate the Vatican.
During this meeting, unsubstantiated threats were allegedly made to initiate conflict with the Vatican. A representative purportedly stated that America possesses the military might to act unilaterally and advised the Catholic Church to align itself with U.S. interests.
During this exchange, one U.S. official allegedly referenced the Avignon Papacy, a historical period when the French Crown exerted significant influence over the Pope through military leverage.
The Avignon Papacy saw the Pope relocate his seat to Avignon, France, under the protection of the French monarchy, for nearly seventy years, from 1309 to 1377.
This historical parallel served as a clear, albeit veiled, warning.
Sources indicate that Pope Leo XIV's address on the state of the world at the beginning of the year was the catalyst for the U.S. administration's reaction. In his address, the Pope highlighted the concerning decline of multilateralism and the rise of a diplomacy based on force rather than dialogue.
He lamented the resurgence of war and the erosion of post-World War II principles that prohibited territorial violations, noting that peace is increasingly sought through military strength rather than as a fundamental good and a path to justice.
Former President Trump's subsequent social media posts, employing coarse language and issuing an ultimatum to Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz, were seen as a significant breach of presidential decorum.
Since Pope Leo XIV's assumption of the papacy, the U.S. has reportedly sought to leverage his position for global influence. Vice President Vance, a Catholic, was reportedly sent to the Vatican with an invitation for the Pope to attend America's 250th anniversary celebration. However, Pope Leo XIV is said to have declined this invitation, opting instead for a visit to Lampedusa, a significant site for migrant arrivals, signaling a divergence from the U.S. administration's policies.
The Pope's Easter message in 2026, delivered Urbi et Orbi, also reportedly caused friction with the U.S.
The message spoke of a growing "globalisation of indifference" towards violence, suffering, and the consequences of division and conflict.
He urged a departure from conflict and a plea for the Lord's peace upon a world suffering from war, hatred, and indifference, emphasizing that true peace can only come from God.
While Pope Leo XIV may lack a military force, his voice represents a critical moral authority in a world often dominated by power dynamics. As the leader of over 1.4 billion Catholics, the Pope has a responsibility to uphold truth and justice, even in the face of those who prioritize might over right.
In an era where unthinkable actions occur, such as the tragic events in Gaza, the threat against the Pope is a grave concern. His position as a moral compass remains paramount.
Long live the Pope!
Wole Olaoye, a Public Relations consultant and veteran journalist, can be reached at [email protected] or on social media @wole_olaoye and woleola2021.
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