Pope Leo XIV criticizes military actions and immigration policies in Barcelona speech

During an address at the Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona, Pope Leo XIV stated that Christians cannot support war or abandon those fleeing suffering. The event was attended by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. This statement is widely interpreted as a critique of the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump. In late May, Pope Leo XIV explicitly rejected the concept of 'just war' often cited by the U.S. and Israel to justify actions against Iran. The U.S. government maintains that its military operations against Iran are necessary to prevent nuclear proliferation. In response to previous papal criticisms, President Trump characterized the pontiff as weak on crime and ineffective in foreign policy. Pope Leo XIV asserts that he has a moral duty to oppose war, despite the ongoing friction with the Trump administration.