Pope Leo, the first US-born pope, celebrated his inaugural Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square, delivering a powerful message of hope amid ongoing global conflicts, including the US-Israeli war on Iran and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He urged the faithful to combat the violence of war that 'kills and destroys' and to remain hopeful in the face of injustices and oppression. The pope highlighted the plight of the vulnerable, criticizing those who prioritize profits over people. His Easter message coincided with subdued celebrations in the Holy Land, where security restrictions limited public gatherings due to missile attacks. These measures have strained relations between Israeli authorities and Christian leaders, particularly after police prevented key religious figures from participating in traditional ceremonies. Pope Leo expressed a desire for peace before Easter, echoing sentiments of compassion and resilience.