Pope Leo XIV says he has ‘no fear’ of Trump administration amid Iran war criticism
Pope Leo XIV has said he has “no fear” of the Donald Trump administration, pushing back strongly against criticism over his comments on the Iran war and global peace efforts.
Speaking to reporters aboard his flight during a 10-day trip to Africa, the Pope said his role was to promote the message of the Gospel rather than engage in political calculations.
“I have no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel,” he said, adding that the Church’s mission is to act as a “peacemaker.”
The remarks came after Trump publicly criticized the Pope, calling his views on Iran and nuclear weapons “terrible for foreign policy” and saying he was “not a fan” of the pontiff.
Trump also accused the Pope of being “weak on crime” and questioned his stance on Iran’s nuclear programme, arguing that the United States should not tolerate threats from Tehran.
The exchange marks an escalation in tensions between the Vatican and the US administration, with the Pope increasingly vocal in calling for restraint and peace amid the ongoing Iran war.
Last week, Pope Leo XIV condemned rhetoric surrounding the conflict, describing threats of large-scale destruction as “truly unacceptable.” He has consistently urged global leaders to avoid war language and prioritize diplomacy.
The Pope has also rejected attempts to justify military action through religious framing, stating that faith should not be used to legitimise violence.
Vatican officials and commentators say the Pope’s stance reflects a broader moral position against war escalation, while critics of Trump argue the president’s response reflects political discomfort with the Church’s influence on global opinion.
The exchange highlights growing friction between religious and political leadership as the Iran conflict continues to shape international discourse.
