President Donald Trump has harshly attacked Pope Leon XIV, stating in a message posted on social media: “I do not want a pope who thinks it’s acceptable for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.” This statement comes after criticisms from the pontiff aimed at Trump’s policy and rhetoric in the context of the war with Iran. The president also described the pope as “weak” on security issues and “disastrous” in foreign policy matters.
The previous week, Donald Trump made alarming comments about the evolution of the conflict, stating that “an entire civilization could die tonight, and never come back,” while acknowledging: “I don’t want that to happen, but it’s probably what will happen.” He described the situation as a pivotal moment, “one of the most important in the long and complex history of the world.”
In response, Pope Leon XIV condemned these threats and opposed any religious interpretation of the conflict, particularly criticizing attempts by some American officials to present the war from a Christian perspective. This exchange highlights the rising tensions between Washington and the Vatican against the backdrop of the crisis in the Middle East.
Despite his attacks, Donald Trump also mentioned a possible turning point, stating: “Now that there is a complete regime change, with smarter and less radical leaders, maybe something revolutionary and wonderful can happen.” He concluded by referring to Iran: “47 years of blackmail, corruption, and death could finally come to an end. May God bless the great Iranian people.” Meanwhile, the US Central Command announced the implementation of a maritime blockade of Iranian ports, as military and diplomatic tensions continue to escalate.
