‘No fear of Trump’ Pope Leo responds to remarks, stands firm on Iran war stance

VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo XIV on Monday, April 13, said he has “no fear” of President Donald Trump and will continue speaking out against war, following criticism from the US president over his stance on the Iran conflict.

The Pope made the remarks while traveling to Algeria, emphasizing his role as a messenger of peace. He also indicated he would not engage in a direct political dispute. 

Pope Leo dismisses criticism, reiterates peace message

Responding to questions from reporters, Pope Leo said, “I have no fear of the Trump administration, or speaking out loudly of the message of the gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do, what the Church is here to do.”

He added, “I don't want to get into a debate with (Trump),” underscoring his reluctance to engage in a direct exchange.

The pontiff emphasized that his role is not political but centered on promoting peace. “I do believe in the message of the gospel, as a peacemaker,” he said, adding he will “not shy away from pronouncing (that) message.”

He also stated, “To put my message on the same plane as what the president is attempting to do here is not understanding what the message of the gospel is, and I’m sorry to hear that, but I will continue on what I believe is the mission of the church.”

Pope Leo has been a consistent critic of the Iran conflict and related rhetoric.

He previously described threats suggesting widespread destruction as “truly unacceptable” and has urged leaders to find an “off-ramp” to de-escalate tensions.

Highlighting the humanitarian impact, he said, “Too many people are suffering in the world today. Too many innocent people are being killed. And I think someone has to stand up and say: there's a better way to do this.”

In broader remarks, the Pope also criticized “continuous violations of international law and neocolonial tendencies,” calling on global leaders to prioritize justice and solidarity.

Trump criticizes Pope, comments draw wider reactions

Trump’s criticism came in a Truth Social post, where he described the Pope as “WEAK on Crime and terrible for Foreign Policy,” later telling reporters he was “not a big fan.”

He also said the pontiff “should get his act together” and accused him of being “weak on nuclear weapons,” referring to concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Trump further questioned the circumstances of Pope Leo’s election, stating, “If I wasn't in the White House, Leo wouldn't be in the Vatican.”

He added, “I don't think he's doing a very good job, he likes crime, I guess,” and described the Pope as “a very liberal person” who does not support firm action against countries pursuing nuclear weapons.

Pope Leo’s approach is widely seen as continuing the humanitarian stance of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who frequently spoke out on global conflicts and political issues.

The latest exchange highlights ongoing differences between the Vatican’s emphasis on peace and the White House’s approach to the Iran conflict.