White House defends troop prayers after Pope says “God does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war.”

30/03/2026

White House defends troop prayers after Pope says “God does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war.”

WASHINGTON (AP), Mar 30: The White House on Monday defended the practice of praying for U.S. military personnel following comments by Pope Leo XIV suggesting that God “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war.” Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said there is “nothing wrong” with leaders and citizens praying for service members, noting that the United States was founded on “Judeo-Christian values” and has a long tradition of prayer during times of conflict.

Leavitt emphasized that U.S. presidents, defense officials, and troops have historically turned to prayer during wartime, adding that there is “nothing wrong” with calling on Americans to pray for those serving overseas. Her remarks came after the Pope’s Palm Sunday homily, in which he said God “rejects war.”

Separately, Leavitt declined to comment on reports regarding the possible use of American-made landmines in Iran, stating she had “no comment” when asked whether such weapons had been deployed or authorized.