Pope Leo has decided not to join the international peace council proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, as confirmed by Vatican Foreign Minister Pietro Parolin. The invitation was made in light of the council's purpose to act as a global peacekeeping body, particularly in the aftermath of two years of conflict in the Gaza region. Parolin emphasized that the Vatican believes the United Nations should primarily handle international crises, highlighting a commitment to established diplomatic frameworks rather than alternative initiatives.

The peace council was initiated by Trump in the autumn of 2025, initially aimed at overseeing the rebuilding of Gaza following severe conflict. However, the goals of the council have since expanded to include resolution efforts for other international issues. With Trump at the helm, the council seeks to assert a greater role in global diplomacy, but the Pope's refusal to participate suggests significant rifts between traditional religious authority and the current political strategies being proposed by the Trump administration.

This rejection may have broader implications for the Vatican's stance on international peace efforts and its relationship with the United States. Pope Leo's decision underscores the importance attributed to established multilateral institutions like the UN and signals a cautious approach towards unilateral initiatives proposed by political leaders. The response from the Vatican indicates a preference for collaborative and recognized frameworks for addressing global crises, reinforcing the church's historical position on peace and international relations.