President Donald Trump defended his stance on Iran’s nuclear capabilities Thursday, emphasizing that Pope Leo needs to recognize the global threat posed by the Middle Eastern nation.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump addressed recent tensions with the religious leader, who has become a vocal opponent of the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran in recent weeks.
“The Pope has to understand – it’s very simple – Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. The world would be in great danger,” Trump declared during the press briefing.
The President has previously labeled Pope Leo as “weak” regarding foreign policy matters and claims responsibility for the Pope’s appointment to his position.
Pope Leo, a Chicago native, made headlines Saturday when he condemned what he called the “madness of war” in a public peace statement.
The current conflict began when U.S. and Israeli forces launched attacks against Iran on February 28. Iran retaliated with strikes targeting Israel and Gulf nations hosting American military installations. The escalating violence, including continued U.S.-Israeli operations in Iran and Israeli attacks in Lebanon, has resulted in thousands of casualties and displaced millions of people.
Despite Trump’s public disagreement, Pope Leo told Reuters Monday that he plans to continue speaking out against the military actions.
Trump attempted to clarify his position, stating: “The Pope can say what he wants, and I want him to say what he wants, but I can disagree. I think that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.”
The President’s public criticism of the Pope has sparked significant opposition from Christian communities throughout the United States, spanning various political affiliations.
