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Pope Leo XIV Responds to Trump’s Iran War Criticism

4/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV distanced himself from President Donald Trump’s criticisms of the Iran war.
During his African tour, the pope said his remarks were prepared before Trump's comments.
President Donald Trump labeled the pope "weak on crime" and criticized his foreign policy.
Senator John Kennedy condemned Trump's rhetoric, calling it a "holy war" against the pope.
Vice President JD Vance defended the pope's right to speak on war and peace.

History

Historical Context

In 1963, Pope John XXIII issued "Pacem in Terris," advocating for peace and condemning war amid the Cold War tensions. This encyclical emphasized human rights and dialogue among nations. The ongoing struggle for moral authority in global conflicts is evident today, as seen in Pope Leo XIV's recent comments distancing from President Trump, who criticized the pope as "weak."

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Story summary

Pope Leo XIV distanced himself from President Donald Trump’s criticisms of the Iran war.
During his African tour, the pope said his remarks were prepared before Trump's comments.
President Donald Trump labeled the pope "weak on crime" and criticized his foreign policy.
Senator John Kennedy condemned Trump's rhetoric, calling it a "holy war" against the pope.
Vice President JD Vance defended the pope's right to speak on war and peace.

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