Pope: “The use of atomic weapons is now a clear threat”
The Pope spoke with urgency about the peril posed by atomic weaponry, urging leaders and citizens alike to pursue a serious, inclusive conversation on nonproliferation and the elimination of such arms. He framed the moment as a pivotal chance to reexamine international norms, call out the dangers of ongoing production and testing, and renew commitments to peace grounded in humanity and shared security. The gathering underscored that the world cannot ignore the possibility of use in conflicts, and that prevention hinges on transparent dialogue, verifiable disarmament steps, and a collective will to uphold every nation’s right to live without the fear of nuclear catastrophe. This appeal came as part of a broader call for moral leadership and practical action in a world still haunted by the shadows of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, where the consequences of weapons remain a universal concern for all peoples and faiths. In that spirit, the international audience was urged to view nonproliferation not merely as policy but as a shared ethical obligation necessary for lasting peace. The message resonated with many who have long argued that treaties, inspections, and cooperative security measures must be strengthened to prevent further harm and to safeguard future generations.
Speaking during the international observance, the Pope reminded attendees that the threat is real and evolving, insisting that the world is witnesses to a scenario that is both feared and undesired by humanity. He emphasized that the continued criminal production and testing of atomic weapons represents a dangerous trend that cannot be ignored. The discussion took place against the backdrop of a solemn event in Rome, where a prayer service titled “Prayer for Peace” was held within a box at the Colosseum, organized by the Sant’Egidio community in the spirit of the historic gathering at Assisi. The setting signified a universal call for solidarity among different faiths and cultures, united in hope for a safer world. The Pope’s remarks highlighted the moral imperative to move beyond words toward concrete steps that reduce risks and promote healing for communities affected by armed conflict. The gathering drew attention to the vulnerable, urging a listening ear for those whose voices are often drowned out by political rhetoric and strategic calculations.
Francisco spoke with compassion about the shadows cast by war and the arms race, describing a “dark scenario” that demands immediate attention. He called on nations to heed the voices of the marginalized and unheard, insisting that peace is a divine gift that must be safeguarded and shared. The pontiff urged global leaders to translate concern into action—to strengthen verification regimes, to close loopholes in existing treaties, and to invest in diplomacy that resolves disputes without resorting to violence. He reminded delegates that hope is rooted in the most vulnerable among us—the poor, the marginalized, and those with the least access to security. In his view, God’s name is Peace, and that name should guide policy, dialogue, and daily practices that protect all people from the threat of annihilation. The message was not merely a warning; it was a call to practical stewardship: to build systems of accountability, to support nonproliferation education, and to foster a culture of responsibility that transcends borders and ideologies.