Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services said on April 4 that America’s war in Iran is likely not justified under Catholic teaching on legitimate defense, often referred to as just war theory.
The archbishop’s remarks highlight concerns among Catholic leaders about whether recent military actions meet the moral standards set by Church doctrine. His comments come as the conflict continues to claim lives both among Iranian civilians and U.S. troops.
In an interview with “Face the Nation” taped April 2 and scheduled to air on Easter, Archbishop Broglio said that he was troubled by the idea that U.S. military action in Iran might be “compensating for a threat” before it is actually realized. “I would line myself up with Pope Leo, who has been urging for negotiation,” he said. “I realize also that you could say, well, with whom are you going to negotiate? And that, that is … a problem. But in the meantime, lives are being lost, both there and also among our, our troops. So it’s … a concern.”
Pope Leo XIV recently told journalists at Castel Gandolfo on March 31 that he hoped President Donald Trump was “looking for an off-ramp” to end the conflict. The pope has consistently spoken out against wars in the Middle East and elsewhere; during his first Palm Sunday homily as pope, he declared: “God does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them, saying: ‘Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood’ (Is 1:15).”
President Trump addressed the nation on April 1 stating: “We are going to finish the job. And we’re going to finish it very fast.” He argued that combat operations against Iran carried out Feb. 28 were launched due to concerns over grave threats such as nuclear blackmail.
When asked about Catholics serving in the military who may be troubled by participating in what Church leadership views as an unjust war, Archbishop Broglio acknowledged their moral dilemma and suggested they consult chaplains or their chain of command for guidance. He advised: “My counsel would be to do as little harm as you- as you can, and to try and preserve innocent lives.”
Broglio also responded when asked about Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s repeated invocation of Jesus regarding the conflict—Hegseth now uses “secretary of war” after President Trump added this ceremonial title via executive order last September—saying such rhetoric was problematic because Jesus brought a message of peace and “war is always a last resort.” He added: “Now…they may have information that led them to think that that was the only choice they had…I do think it’s hard…to cast this war…as something that would be sponsored by the Lord.”
As debate continues within both religious communities and government circles over justification for ongoing hostilities with Iran, Archbishop Broglio’s comments underscore enduring tensions between faith-based ethics and national security decisions.
