Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday marked the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, calling it a “universal warning” against the catastrophic impact of war, especially nuclear conflict.
Speaking at the end of his weekly general audience, the pontiff described the Hiroshima bombing—and the one on Nagasaki three days later—as “tragic events” that must never be forgotten.
“I hope that in today’s world, plagued by deep divisions and deadly violence, the false sense of security built on the threat of mutual destruction will be replaced by tools of justice, open dialogue, and trust in fraternity,” Pope Leo said.