Leavitt defends Trump’s prayers for troops in Iran after Pope Leo’s anti-war remarks

WASHINGTON, DC: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed anti-war remarks by Pope Leo XIV during a press briefing on Monday, March 30, amid escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Her comments come as tensions rise following failed negotiations over Iran’s nuclear enrichment program. The situation continues to develop alongside increased troop deployments by the Trump administration and reports of potential military operations.

Karoline Leavitt speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Monday, March 30, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Karoline Leavitt responds to Pope Leo’s remarks

During the press briefing, a reporter referenced the Pope's statement, “God does not listen to the prayer of those who wage war,” and asked Leavitt for a response. Leavitt defended the role of faith in American public life and military tradition.

She said, "I think our nation was a nation founded 250 years ago, almost, on Judeo-Christian values, and we've seen presidents, we've seen the leaders of the Department of War, and we've seen our troops go to prayer during the most turbulent times in our nation's history."

Leavitt continued, "And I don't think there's anything wrong with our military leaders or with the president calling on the American people to pray for our service members and those who are serving our country overseas." 

She concluded, "In fact, I think it's a very noble thing to do, and if you talk to many service members, they will tell you they appreciate the prayers and support from the commander-in-chief and from his cabinet."

In a later question, a reporter referenced comments President Donald Trump made to the New York Post about an upcoming response to Iran following an attack on Israel’s largest oil refinery. When asked about a timeline, Leavitt cited Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s remarks, stating that Iran’s leadership remains fragmented and its communication systems have been significantly disrupted.

She further indicated that the ongoing diplomatic process includes identifying authoritative leadership within Iran, noting the appointment of a new Ayatollah, about whom little has been heard.

Pope Leo XIV’s homily and expanding Iran conflict

Pope Leo XIV delivered a homily in St Peter’s Square condemning war and rejecting the use of religion to justify violence. He described Jesus as the “King of Peace,” contrasting Christ’s meekness with the violence surrounding him during his Passion.

The Pope stated that Jesus did not arm himself or engage in war, instead revealing “the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence.” He further declared that God “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war,” asserting that such prayers are rejected because “your hands are full of blood.”

The Pope also reflected on Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling a prophecy of a king who would "command peace to nations."

Meanwhile, the conflict in Iran continues to intensify. Two unnamed US officials told The Washington Post that the Defense Department is preparing for raids on Kharg Island, where 90 per cent of Iran’s crude oil exports are processed, and on coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran effectively closed the strait following initial US-Israeli strikes, disrupting a route that carries 20 per cent of global oil and LNG supplies. As a result, global energy markets have been severely impacted, with Brent crude prices rising from approximately $65 per barrel before the conflict to nearly $116.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump stated he wants to “take the oil in Iran” and could seize Kharg Island. Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned that US troops would face resistance in the event of an invasion, stating that forces are prepared to confront American soldiers and retaliate against regional allies.