Pope Francis delivered a resolute message to the U.N. Security Council. “The time has come to say an emphatic no to war, to state that wars are not just, but only peace is,” Pope Francis said in his message, read by the Vatican’s foreign minister Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher.

The Pope also expressed concern over growing conflicts and the widespread nature of a fragmented third world war. He emphasised that we need to listen to those who suffer because of wars and urged the Security Council to transcend ideologies and fulfill its role in safeguarding peace. 

Pope Francis ended his message on a hopeful note, stating it is not too late for a future without wars. “The first step is to increase now, without fear, what is needed to promote fraternity and peace for the entire planet,” he stated.