Story perspectives

Pope condemns Iran protest killings; Trump spares eight protesters

4/24/2026

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Pope Condemns Iran

Pope Leo XIV warned that immigrants are sometimes treated “worse than pets,” stressing humanitarian concerns during the Iran conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced eight protesters, Bita Hemmati, will not be executed, with Iran’s judiciary stating they face prison.
Pope Leo XIV, after an African pilgrimage, condemned Iran’s killing of protesters and urged peace.
Karoline Leavitt called it humanitarian, as a Politico poll showed only 38% support strikes.

Right

Trump Claims Halt

U.S. President Donald Trump claimed Iran stopped the planned execution of eight female protesters after his appeal.
Four detainees were freed, four received one-month sentences, and Bita Hemmati still faces a confirmed death penalty.
Iran’s judiciary refuted Trump’s claim, saying the women were never slated for execution.
A journalist identified detainees, noting ages as low as 16 and naming Mahboubeh Shabani, 33.

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Pope Condemns Iran

Pope Leo XIV warned that immigrants are sometimes treated “worse than pets,” stressing humanitarian concerns during the Iran conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced eight protesters, Bita Hemmati, will not be executed, with Iran’s judiciary stating they face prison.
Pope Leo XIV, after an African pilgrimage, condemned Iran’s killing of protesters and urged peace.
Karoline Leavitt called it humanitarian, as a Politico poll showed only 38% support strikes.

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