PETALING JAYA: The International Affairs Bureau of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KEADILAN) has expressed support for the stance of Pope Leo XIV, who rejects war and calls for peace amid rising tensions involving the United States and Iran.

Its chairman, Dr. Maszlee Malik, said the Pope’s voice—calling for reason, restraint, and respect for human life—deserves recognition as global tensions continue to escalate.

He added that the Pope’s statement that “Jesus is the king of peace, who rejects war” reflects a firm moral position against any attempt to justify conflict.

“This is not merely the view of a religious leader, but a manifestation of moral courage in the face of geopolitical pressure,” he said in a statement today.

At the same time, KEADILAN criticised the response of United States President Donald Trump, describing it as inappropriate following his remarks against the head of the Catholic Church.

According to him, such statements challenge the principles of religious freedom and freedom of expression in international affairs.

KEADILAN also reiterated its stance against any form of unilateral military action, which it said violates international law and the United Nations Charter.

He called on the international community to support de-escalation efforts and return to a multilateral diplomatic approach to ensure global peace.