A diplomatic row appears to be brewing between the Vatican and Washington after Pope Leo XIV responded to criticism from Donald J. Trump, emphasizing his commitment to peace and rejecting political confrontation.
Speaking to reporters aboard the papal plane en route to Algeria on Monday, the Pontiff made it clear that he would not be drawn into a political dispute with the U.S. leader despite mounting tensions.
“I think that the people who read will be able to draw their own conclusions: I am not a politician, I have no intention of entering into a debate with him,” the Pope said.
The remarks come in the wake of a sharp attack by President Trump, who reportedly described the Pope as “weak” following the Vatican’s criticism of his rhetoric on Iran. Trump had earlier issued a warning that he could “obliterate Iranian civilisation,” comments that drew condemnation from the Holy See.
In his response, Pope Leo XIV underscored the moral responsibility of the Church to advocate for peace, distancing himself from political discourse while firmly defending the message of the Gospel.
“I am not afraid of the Trump administration. I speak about the Gospel, I am not a politician,” he said, adding that religious teachings should not be misused to justify conflict.
The Pope reiterated the Church’s long-standing position against war, calling for dialogue and multilateral engagement among nations.
“I will continue to speak out loudly against war, to try to promote peace, multilateral dialogue between states in order to seek the right solution to problems,” he said.
The exchange highlights growing friction between religious and political leadership on issues of global security, particularly amid heightened tensions involving Iran. While the Vatican has consistently advocated for diplomacy and restraint, Trump’s hardline stance signals a more aggressive approach to foreign policy.
Observers say the Pope’s remarks reflect a broader appeal to the international community to prioritize peace over confrontation, especially at a time when conflicts and humanitarian crises continue to escalate worldwide.
“The message of the Church is the message of the Gospel, blessed are the peacemakers,” the Pope said. “Too many people are suffering in the world.”
As global tensions persist, the clash between moral authority and political power is likely to remain a defining feature of international discourse.
