Johnson warns Pope Leo to expect ‘political response’ after Trump criticism

WASHINGTON, DC: House Speaker Mike Johnson said Pope Leo XIV should have anticipated a political backlash from Donald Trump after speaking out on geopolitical issues, as tensions between the White House and the Vatican continue to escalate.

Speaking to reporters in Washington on Wednesday, April 15, Johnson struck a measured tone but made clear that religious leaders entering political debates should expect responses from elected officials.

“A pontiff or any religious leader can say anything they want,” Johnson said. “But obviously, if you wade into political waters, you should expect some political response,” he added.

Criticism of Pope’s remarks on war

Johnson also took issue with comments made by Pope Leo XIV during his Palm Sunday address, where the pontiff said Jesus “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war.”

The pope’s remarks, delivered before thousands gathered at St Peter’s Square, were widely interpreted as criticism of ongoing conflicts, including the Iran war.

Johnson suggested the statement conflicted with established Christian teachings. “It is a very well settled matter of Christian theology,” he said, pointing to the concept of the “Just War Doctrine,” which outlines conditions under which war can be morally justified.

Speaker defends administration’s position

The House Speaker aligned himself with the administration’s stance on the conflict, arguing that US actions have reduced threats posed by hostile actors.

Referring indirectly to Iran, Johnson said limiting the capabilities of what he described as a major sponsor of terrorism could save lives.

“The stakes are so high,” he said, adding that weakening such threats could mean “potentially millions of people will be able to keep their lives.”

Despite his criticism, Johnson sought to avoid a confrontation with the Vatican, emphasizing respect for the pope while acknowledging differences in interpretation.

“I don’t want to get into a theological debate with the pope,” he said. “These are matters that people of good faith and good sense can debate.”

Trump intensifies criticism of Pope

The remarks come days after Trump launched a sharp attack on the pontiff, accusing him of being “weak” on issues such as crime and Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

In a social media post on April 12, Trump also made a personal comparison, saying he preferred the pope’s brother, Louis Prevost, describing him as a “big MAGA person.”

The president has since refused to walk back his comments, telling reporters there was “nothing to apologize for.”

The clash escalated after Pope Leo increased his criticism of the Iran conflict, condemning Trump’s warning that the US could “wipe out” an entire civilization if Tehran failed to reach a deal.

The pope called such rhetoric “truly unacceptable” and reiterated his opposition to the war, stating that “God does not bless any conflict.”