Trump renews Pope clash, accuses pontiff of ‘endangering Catholics’ over Iran
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald J Trump has intensified his public clash with Pope Leo XIV, accusing the pontiff of "endangering a lot of Catholics."
The latest escalation came during an interview on The Hugh Hewitt Show, where Trump shifted from discussing jailed Hong Kong businessman Jimmy Lai to criticizing the Vatican’s foreign policy stance.
The President claimed the Pope believes it is "just fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon," calling the position dangerous for both Catholics and global security.
The remarks underscore a long-running friction between Trump and the American-born Pope, who have previously disagreed on issues ranging from immigration to ongoing military operations.
The latest exchange adds to a series of public disagreements now unfolding against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions.
Nuclear rhetoric drives deep religious rift
The President’s comments highlight a widening divide over global security and the role of the Church in political debates.
When asked about whether the Pope should intervene in Jimmy Lai’s detention, a matter Trump said he plans to raise with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the President instead focused on what he described as the Pope’s position on Iran.
"The Pope would rather talk about the fact that it’s OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon," Trump said.
The exchange follows weeks of sharp rhetoric between the two figures. Pope Leo XIV had earlier criticized Trump’s warning that "a whole civilization will die" in Iran, calling such statements "unacceptable" and referencing a "delusion of omnipotence" in global conflicts.
Trump responded by describing the Pope as "WEAK on crime" and "terrible for Foreign Policy," and also referenced the pontiff’s brother, Louis, in political terms.
Vatican prepares for high-level diplomatic talks
The timing of Trump’s remarks comes ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s scheduled visit to Rome from May 6-8. The State Department said the trip aims to strengthen bilateral ties with Italy and the Vatican.
Discussions are expected to include the situation in the Middle East, even as tensions between the White House and the Holy See continue to draw attention.
The diplomatic backdrop is further complicated by a recent social media post from Trump depicting himself in a messianic image, which drew criticism from multiple quarters.
The episode has added another layer to the ongoing political and religious tensions surrounding the administration’s messaging ahead of the Rome visit.
Regional tensions extend to Cuban relations
Beyond the Middle East, talks between Rubio and the Pope are also expected to address developments in Cuba. After the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January, the United States increased pressure on Havana.
In February, Pope Leo XIV expressed "great concern" over the situation and called for "sincere and effective dialogue" to prevent escalation.
As Washington maintains its current approach in the region, the Vatican has continued to emphasize dialogue and humanitarian considerations.
The Pope has also invoked the protection of the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre for Cuba, underscoring a contrast in tone as both sides prepare for discussions during the upcoming visit.
