In a new escalation of the verbal confrontation between the White House and the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV responded forcefully on Monday to criticism from US President Donald Trump regarding the Church’s stance on the US-Israeli war in Iran. The pontiff affirmed that the Vatican’s calls for peace and reconciliation are not a political maneuver, but a firm commitment rooted in the teachings of the Gospel, emphasizing that he “does not fear” the Trump administration or its pressure. In this context, the role of the Pope is highlighted in promoting dialogue and clarifying the Church’s position.
In remarks to the Associated Press aboard the papal plane en route to begin his African tour, Pope Leo Xavi commented on Trump’s attempts to diminish the Church’s role or link its positions to electoral calculations, saying, “I think to put my message in the same category as what the president has tried to do here shows a lack of understanding of the Gospel message.” Clearly, the Pope is emphasizing the importance of the Church’s true mission, separate from politics.
Pope Francis expressed his regret over the tone of the US president, but affirmed his determination to continue his approach, saying, “I regret hearing this, but I will continue what I believe to be the true message of the Church in the world today.” These remarks underscore a sharp divide between the Catholic spiritual leadership and Washington at a time of escalating military conflict in the Middle East. The Pope insists that dialogue and mediation are the only way to end the “diabolical cycle of evil,” rejecting the illusion of absolute military power. Furthermore, the Pope consistently advocates for peace and reconciliation. It is important to recognize that the Pope represents a symbol of universality and a call for dialogue among peoples.
