Does Pope Leo Reject Just-War Teaching? Theologians Push Back on Criticism of Pontiff
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Catholic theologians defend Pope Leo's stance against war, arguing it aligns with the Church's just-war teaching and recent popes' pleas for peace. Critics had questioned whether the Pope's comments implied a rejection of justified military action.
Catholic theologians have pushed back against criticism of Pope Leo's recent statements against war, arguing that his views are consistent with the Church's teaching on just war. The Pope's comments, made during the US conflict with Iran, emphasized that war offends God and that God does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war. Scholars such as Ed Feser and Greg Reichberg argue that the Pope's statements should be understood as a prohibition against unjust or aggressive war, rather than all military action. They point out that recent popes have also denounced conflicts unless there is a case for legitimate defense. Critics, including Vice President JD Vance, had questioned whether the Pope's comments implied a rejection of justified military action. The theologians urge Catholics to approach the Pope's teachings as a pastor, rather than a politician.
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