During an interview with NBC News on his flight to Algiers this Monday, Pope Leo XIV declared he harbors "no fear of the Trump administration" and remains steadfast in his commitment to uphold the Gospel's teachings amidst the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, as reported by AP.
The pontiff's remarks came shortly after Trump launched a scathing attack on him via Truth Social, branding him "weak and misguided," "terrible in foreign policy," and "soft on crime."
Trump further questioned the legitimacy of Leo XIV’s papacy, claiming he was appointed by the Church merely because he was American, as a strategic move to handle President Donald J. Trump.
The President even issued a stark warning: "Leo should step up as Pope [...] he's damaging himself and, more importantly, he's harming the Catholic Church!"
Pope Leo XIV, notable as the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church, responded with resolve but refrained from engaging in a direct confrontation: "I do not wish to argue with him."
He emphasized that the Vatican's calls for peace are rooted in the Gospel and insisted that the Church cannot remain silent in the face of civilian casualties: "Too many innocents are being killed."
"I will continue to speak out loudly about the message of the Gospel," added the pontiff.
Heightened Tensions
The tensions between Trump and Leo XIV escalated following a private meeting on April 9 between the Pope and Democratic strategist and former advisor to President Barack Obama, David Axelrod, which the White House perceived as a political statement.
On April 11, the Pope organized a prayer vigil for peace in St. Peter's Square and had previously condemned Trump's aggressive rhetoric toward Iran as "truly unacceptable."
Leo XIV described the ongoing war as unjust, unprovoked, immoral, and illegal according to the Catholic doctrine of just war—a stance supported by American cardinals, according to AP.
Background of the Conflict
The backdrop to these events is Operation Epic Fury, a joint offensive by the United States and Israel initiated on February 28, 2026, which targeted and destroyed Iranian nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.
After the collapse of negotiations mediated by Pakistan in Islamabad, Trump announced a naval blockade against Iran on Monday to prevent it from selling its oil on international markets.
Trump also criticized the Pope for not opposing Iran's nuclear program: "We are not fans of a pope who says it is okay to have a nuclear weapon."
In June 2025, when initial attacks on Iranian nuclear sites were announced, Leo XIV had already cautioned that "no military victory can make up for the pain of mothers, the fear of children, the stolen future."
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pope's Stance on International Conflicts
What is Pope Leo XIV's position on the US-Iran conflict?
Pope Leo XIV advocates for peace and opposes the ongoing conflict, describing it as unjust, unprovoked, immoral, and illegal under Catholic doctrine.
How did Pope Leo XIV respond to Trump's criticism?
Pope Leo XIV responded calmly, stating he does not wish to argue with Trump and reaffirming his dedication to the Gospel's message.
Why did Trump criticize Pope Leo XIV?
Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV for being "weak and misguided," questioning his legitimacy and accusing him of harming the Catholic Church.