Pope Leo marked his first anniversary as head of the Catholic Church by urging God to inspire world leaders to calm global tensions and reduce hatred. Speaking to thousands in Pompei, he called for prayers that those in government would turn away from violence and help ease what he described as fratricidal hatred and growing international strain.

The appeal came a day after Leo met United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Vatican amid strained relations with Washington. The pope, who has faced criticism from President Donald Trump following his comments on the Iran war, emphasized the need for dialogue and pledged efforts to improve bilateral ties after talks that both sides described as constructive.

In his address, Leo warned that world peace is endangered by rising tensions and an economy that favors the arms trade over respect for human life. He urged people not to become accustomed to images of war and death, insisting that societies must reject violence as a solution to conflict.

During a later visit to Naples, he praised local initiatives supporting refugees arriving from Gaza and encouraged residents to continue promoting a culture of peace over confrontation and force.