Pope Leo XIV Issues Nuclear Warning on 80th Hiroshima Anniversary

Marking the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Pope Leo XIV called for a global commitment to disarmament and lasting peace, condemning the nuclear deterrence system as an "illusory security" that perpetuates global tensions and conflicts. In messages delivered both in Hiroshima and during his general audience, the Pope emphasized that nuclear weapons cause indescribable catastrophes and betray human dignity, urging the international community to adopt justice, dialogue, and fraternity instead of relying on threats of mutual destruction. The Pope’s appeal coincided with an annual ceremony attended by representatives from 120 countries, including Israel and the Palestinian Authority, while notable nuclear-capable states like China, North Korea, and Russia were absent. Hiroshima’s tragic history remains a powerful warning about the devastating humanitarian and cultural consequences of nuclear warfare, as highlighted by commentators who stress the need for remembrance and education to counter the casual rhetoric of nuclear threats in today’s geopolitical climate. The Pope’s message aligns with the Catholic Church’s evolving stance against nuclear armament, underscoring the moral imperative to seek peace through nonviolent means. These solemn reflections serve as a universal call to renew efforts towards abolishing nuclear arms and fostering global harmony.