Pope Leo XIV has made a powerful condemnation of the recent breaches of international and humanitarian law, particularly highlighting the distressing situations in Gaza and Ukraine. His statements were delivered during a gathering of the Reunion of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches last Thursday.

Referencing the ongoing conflicts in these regions, the Pope expressed deep concern over the disregard for international norms meant to protect human rights. "It is truly distressing to see the principle of 'might makes right' prevailing in so many situations today, all for the sake of legitimizing the pursuit of self-interest," he stated. He criticized the erosion of international law, which has been overshadowed by the forceful imposition of national interests.

The Pope’s comments come at a time when both Israel and Russia face serious accusations and legal scrutiny for their actions in Gaza and Ukraine, respectively. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has been particularly active, issuing arrest warrants for high-profile leaders such as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing crimes against humanity and the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children.

Pope Leo XIV did not delve deeply into the specifics of the allegations but underscored the broader issue of the weakening adherence to international and humanitarian laws. He stressed the importance of distinguishing between genuine concerns and those manufactured through "emotional manipulation and rhetoric."

In his poignant closing remarks, Pope Leo XIV called on the global community to confront these real issues and shed light on manipulative falsehoods. "People must not die from fake news," he declared, emphasizing the lethal consequences of misinformation and the urgency of addressing legitimate international crises.

This statement from a global religious leader highlights the critical need for integrity, justice, and respect for human rights across all nations. The Pope’s voice adds significant moral weight to the call for renewed adherence to international law, advocating for the vulnerable and oppressed in conflict zones around the world.