Vatican Consistory Calls for Global Peace and Criticizes International Double Standards

A two‑day consistory was held in Rome on 26‑27 June 2026, presided over by Pope Leon XIV and attended by more than 170 cardinals from around the world. The gathering focused on pastoral challenges, international conflicts, humanitarian crises and the Church’s role in promoting peace.

Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández sharply criticised what he described as the selective application of international law by the European Union, saying sanctions and military aid are imposed according to political convenience, and that the concept of "legitimate defence" is being twisted to justify aggression in places such as Gaza and southern Lebanon.

Cardinal Fernando Chomali of Santiago de Chile reflected on the atmosphere of prayer and dialogue at the consistory, noting the Pope’s request, “Necesito su apoyo: fuerte, explícito y público.” He stressed the Church’s missionary nature and urged unity, condemning war, poverty and the concentration of power while calling for concrete action to alleviate suffering.