Pope Leo has once again called on the international community to work toward ending the escalating conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran. Speaking on Monday, he urged journalists to focus on “the suffering of war,” warning that news coverage must not turn into propaganda or serve as a “mouthpiece for those in power.” Pope Leo emphasized that reporters should tell stories from the perspective of victims to prevent war from being perceived as a “video game.” He stressed that the ethical responsibility of the media becomes even more critical during times of conflict, as the portrayal of violence can shape global understanding of reality. He added that by focusing on human suffering and the real consequences of war, journalists can help ensure that conflict is not presented as entertaining or sensational, while the true pain remains hidden. The Pope’s warning echoes earlier remarks by Cardinal Blase Cupich, who described the circulation of war footage mixed with video game imagery as “disgusting.” Reaffirming the importance of accuracy and fact-checking, Pope Leo also called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the devastating violence.
