Speaking at a gathering of religious leaders, Pope Leo argued that war can never be waged in God’s name. But how do his words sit alongside the Crusades, backed by previous Popes? And what about today, with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth using Christian language to frame the conflict with Iran? Can war ever be justified in religion’s name? Esther spoke to Anabaptist theologian and peace activist Simon Jones about whether war is ever justified.

Released on 4 Nov 2026