I am not a fan of the Roman Catholic church, for many reasons. However, I referred to the Pope's statements on Israel and Gaza because I know Steve to be an admirer.
The Pope calling for peace requires both sides to listen to him and take his advice.
After Iran's first missile strike on Israel. The Pope said -
“stop every action that could stoke the spiral of violence and risk dragging the Middle East into a much bigger war conflict.”Recently Ayatolla Khamenei held a sermon with a rifle in his hand praising the October 8th massacre.
Neither parties seem to be taking note.
As for Steve being and admirer of the Pope. I wonder if Steve venerates Simon of Trent?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_of_Trent