Pope reminds armed forces to act for defense, respect international laws 

Pope Francis presides over a mass for the jubilee of the armed forces in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Feb.9, 2025. Members of the Italian armed forces attend a mass presided over by Pope Francis for the jubilee of the armed forces in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, Feb.9, 2025.

Pope Francis on Sunday told soldiers, police and other law enforcement officials from around the world that armed force can only be used for legitimate defense and must always respect international law.