Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Pope Grants Grand Cross to Iran Ambassador, Sparks GOP Criticism

5/14/2026

46 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV awarded the Grand Cross to Iran’s ambassador after two and a half years in post.
Christopher Hale said the honor follows diplomatic customs and noted the ambassador presented credentials in December 2023.
A U.S. Holy See account said thirteen ambassadors got the same decoration without the pope’s personal presentation.
MAGA Republican users on X accused the pope of endorsing Iran’s regime.

1 of 1

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV awarded the Grand Cross to Iran’s ambassador after two and a half years in post.
Christopher Hale said the honor follows diplomatic customs and noted the ambassador presented credentials in December 2023.
A U.S. Holy See account said thirteen ambassadors got the same decoration without the pope’s personal presentation.
MAGA Republican users on X accused the pope of endorsing Iran’s regime.