Pope Leo Says He Does Not Fear Trump, Pushes Back By Citing Gospel In Feud Over Iran Conflict
Apr 13, 2026
ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE (AP) — Pope Leo XIV has responded to President Donald Trump’s criticism over the U.S.-Israel war in Iran, saying the Vatican’s peace appeals are rooted in the Gospel. Speaking Monday, Leo emphasized that his message is not a direct attack on Trump but a call for peace.
Trump criticized Leo on social media and to reporters, accusing him of being too liberal.
Leo suggested over the weekend that a “delusion of omnipotence” is fueling the U.S.-Israel war in Iran. In a social media post, Trump accused Leo of being weak on crime and foreign policy. He also criticized Leo for opposing the U.S. attack on Venezuela.
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