The Absurdity of War: Pope Francis Calls for Disarmament
Our Editorial Director reflects on Pope Francis’ powerful affirmation from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital of “the absurdity” of war as global powers rush to rearm.
By Andrea Tornielli
Amidst the resurgence of war in the Middle East with new Israeli bombings in Gaza, Pope Francis, from Rome’s Gemelli hospital, has spoken out against the senseless destruction caused by conflict.
In a letter addressed to the director of the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, the Pope’s words echo a cry for peace, emphasizing the devastating impact of war on communities and the environment.
The world, including Europe, is currently in a rush to rearm itself, investing vast sums in arsenals already filled with weapons capable of unimaginable destruction.
Despite his own frailty due to illness, the Pope urges us to halt the dangerous path towards World War III. He calls for disarmament of both words and minds, emphasizing the need to disarm the earth itself.
In a world filled with sensationalized media, demonization of adversaries, and misinformation, Pope Francis advocates for reflection, calmness, and a deeper understanding of complex realities.
Above all, he urges a return to diplomacy in a world where international organizations are weakening. He stresses the importance of international cooperation and the need to prioritize disarmament over rearmament.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, echoes this sentiment by emphasizing the necessity of controlled disarmament at the international level, warning against the dangerous path of strengthening arsenals.
As we witness the escalating tensions in various regions and the growing stockpiles of weapons, Pope Francis’ call for peace and disarmament serves as a beacon of hope in a world teetering on the brink of catastrophe.
