Pope Francis: "World War III is turning into a real global conflict in pieces"

Pope Francis appealed on Monday to halt conflicts worldwide, stating that they are evolving from a "third world war in pieces" into a genuine global conflict. He expressed hope for discontinuing armament and reallocating funds to establish true security in the world.

Christmas Eve 1944 was remembered thanks to the message to the nations of the world given by Pope Pius XII. The five years of atrocities of World War II were meant to be a turning point in human history.

Francis referred to the events of 80 years ago, stating that "the impetus for this 'profound renewal' seems to have been exhausted, and the world is being torn apart by an increasing number of conflicts that are slowly transforming what I have repeatedly called a 'Third World War in pieces' into a real global conflict."

In his Monday speech to representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See, the Pope appealed for peace in the Middle East. He also stressed that the conflict in Ukraine cannot be allowed to persist.

War in the Middle East. Pope's appeal

"We were all shocked by the terrorist attack on the inhabitants of Israel on October 7, in which many innocent people were horribly injured, tortured, and killed, and many were taken hostage," he said.

"This does not solve problems between nations but rather makes them even more difficult, causing suffering for all. This provoked a significantly strong Israeli military response in the Gaza Strip, leading to the death of tens of thousands of Palestinians, mostly civilians, including many children, teenagers, and young people, and created a very serious humanitarian situation with unimaginable suffering," he added.

The Pope also called for humanitarian aid for the Palestinian population and protection for hospitals, schools, and places of worship.

Francis expressed hope that the international community will decisively pursue a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, with Jerusalem receiving special status.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine. "The conflict cannot be allowed to continue"

The head of the Church referred to the events in Europe and said that "the conflict, which is becoming more and more fierce, cannot be allowed to continue, to the detriment of millions of people."

"Unfortunately, after almost two years of the large-scale war waged by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the long-awaited peace has not yet found a place in minds and hearts, despite the very large number of victims and enormous destruction"
Francis said.

He stressed that "it is necessary to put an end to this ongoing tragedy through negotiations, respecting international law."

"The immorality of producing and possessing nuclear weapons" Francis reminded that wars are not the only source of human suffering. He recalled the millions suffering in Africa due to humanitarian crises, international terrorism, socio-political problems, the devastating effects of climate change, and armed coups.

He stated that efforts should be made towards disarmament, and the finances spent on purchasing equipment and maintaining the army should be allocated to measures that will have a real impact on global security. In his opinion, weapons are "instruments of death."

"Among the threats posed by such instruments of death, I cannot fail to mention the threats posed by nuclear arsenals and the development of increasingly sophisticated and destructive weapons. Once again, I emphasize the immorality of producing and possessing nuclear weapons"
Francis said.

He stressed how important it is to resume negotiations on the nuclear agreement with Iran to ensure a safer future for the world.