In his historic peace-focused speech to Spain’s parliament on Monday, Pope Leo
In Leo XIV’s first address as a pope to the politicians of the General Council of Cortes, he emphasized that “peace requires diplomatic courage and moral responsibility” and that states resolve disputes based on international law.
His remarks came amid a trade strike between Israel and Iran in the worst escalation of war since a cease-fire in April, and on a day when the pope met with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who has opposed the US-Israel war on Iran.
The Pope has also been outspoken in his opposition to the conflict, and Sanchez defended him when US President Donald Trump attacked him for opposing the war with Iran. Trump also clashed with Sanchez over Iran.
“Every war ultimately represents a painful defeat of the capacity for negotiation and of the common human conscience that recognizes the bonds of justice between nations,” Leo told Spain’s political leaders in Madrid.
“The world is experiencing a deep spiritual and cultural crisis, which is manifesting itself in various forms of violence, polarization and mutual mistrust. In this context, peace is emerging as a political aspiration and even as a genuine moral imperative.”
The first US pope, who is in Spain until Friday, argued that peace requires “diplomatic courage and moral responsibility” and that states have an obligation “to resolve disputes through the peaceful means provided by international law.”
The Pope’s wide-ranging speech warned against increased European arms spending and the plight of migrants. He also praised Spain’s historical role in laying the foundations for modern human rights understanding 500 years ago.
The pope stressed that the “inalienable dignity” of every person should guide all legal systems, and in Leo’s case, this includes immigrants.
“At a time when so many people are forced to leave everything behind in search of peace, security and a future, the affirmation of human dignity must not remain abstract,” the Pope said.
“The tragic drama of migration also challenges the conscience of nations and the ethical foundations of today’s international order.”
Immigration is one of the main themes of the Pope’s visit to Spain, and Leo will visit the Canary Islands to show support for immigration at a major entry point for people coming to Europe.
Addressing Spain’s highly polarized political climate, the Pope said politicians have a duty to “disarm words” and called for a “moral renewal” in the country.
“Political pluralism must not degenerate into constant contempt for our opponents,” the Pope said.
His speech was greeted with sustained applause from the chamber.
Political polarization has increased in Spain recently. While Sanchez’s left-wing government has faced challenges, including corruption scandals, it has gained support from conservative factions such as the nationalist and populist right-wing party Vox.
