The White House has pushed back on comments Pope Leo said on Palm Sunday about God rejecting the prayers of leaders who wage war. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the administration’s use of prayer in reference to the U.S military’s recent operations.

“Our nation was a nation founded 250 years ago, almost on Judeo-Christian values," she said. "And we have seen presidents, the leaders of the Department of War, and our troops go to prayer during the most turbulent times in our nation’s history."

She continued: “I don't think there is anything wrong with our military leaders or with the president calling on the American people to pray for our service members overseas. If you talk to many service members, they appreciate the prayers and support from the commander-in-chief and his cabinet.”

Pope Leo made his remarks during a Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. The pontiff delivered an unusually forceful condemnation of war as the conflict with Iran entered its second month. Leo spoke to tens of thousands of worshippers, stating that Jesus cannot be used to justify violence. He cited a biblical passage that said God will not listen to prayers from those whose “hands are full of blood”.

“Brothers and sisters, this is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” he said. “He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them.”

While Pope Leo did not name specific political leaders, he has critizised war in recent weeks and called for an immediate ceasefire.