Pope Calls For End Of Arms Trade

WASHINGTON — In a major address to the US Congress, Pope Francis Thursday today called for the end of the arms trade market, calling the profits gained in the defense market "drenched in blood."
 
The popePope, the first pope to address the US Congress, also called for greater dialogue between nations with historic tensions, in what could be interpreted as support for the recent Iran nuclear deal.
 
"Being at the service of dialogue and peace also means being truly determined to minimize and, in the long term, to end the many armed conflicts throughout our world," the pPope said about three-quarters of the way through his speech.

The term "arms trade," of course, can have multiple meanings. For many, the term specifically references the illegal trade in small arms that occurs around the world. But it I t can also be taken to refer to the broader defense industrial market.

The comments were met with a surprisingly strong response from the members — starting with clapping, then followed by then led to a standing ovation — given the large ties between the Hill and the defense industry.

According to the website OpenSecrets.org, which tracks money in politics, defense contractors donated $25,316,750 to parties and candidates in the 2013-2014 election cycle. So far in the 2016 cycle, the companies and individuals who make up the defense sector have donated $5.9 billion to candidates and political parties. 

"When countries which have been at odds resume the path of dialogue – a dialogue which may have been interrupted for the most legitimate of reasons – new opportunities open up for all," the pope Pope said. "This has required, and requires, courage and daring, which is not the same as irresponsibility. A good political leader is one who, with the interests of all in mind, seizes the moment in a spirit of openness and pragmatism."