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Trump Accuses Pope of Misstating Iran's Nuclear Threat

4/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 16, U.S. President Donald Trump accused Pope Leo XIV of suggesting Iran could have a nuclear weapon, a claim the pope has never made.
Trump asserted he has nothing against the pope but said Iran must be prevented from obtaining nuclear capabilities.
The pope has consistently condemned nuclear weapons and the U.S.-led war on Iran, while Trump labeled the pope "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy".

History

Historical Context

In 1963, Pope John XXIII issued "Pacem in Terris," advocating for nuclear disarmament during the Cold War. This encyclical, the first addressed to all humanity, emphasized moral responsibility against nuclear arms, influencing global leaders and organizations. Tensions between U.S. foreign policy and the Vatican's stance on nuclear proliferation continue, reflecting ongoing struggles over moral authority in international relations.

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Story summary

On April 16, U.S. President Donald Trump accused Pope Leo XIV of suggesting Iran could have a nuclear weapon, a claim the pope has never made.
Trump asserted he has nothing against the pope but said Iran must be prevented from obtaining nuclear capabilities.
The pope has consistently condemned nuclear weapons and the U.S.-led war on Iran, while Trump labeled the pope "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy".

1 / 2