Fresh tensions have emerged between U.S. President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV after Trump again criticized the pontiff over comments related to Iran, immigration and peace efforts in the Middle East.
During an interview with conservative commentator Hugh Hewitt, Trump accused the pope of being too soft on Iran and claimed his comments regarding diplomacy and immigration were making the world less safe.
Trump suggested the pontiff was helping Iran by advocating for continued peace talks rather than stronger military action, while also criticizing the pope’s repeated calls for migrants to be treated with dignity and respect.
The Vatican quickly pushed back against Trump’s remarks. Speaking to reporters, Pope Leo said the Catholic Church has consistently opposed nuclear weapons and emphasized that his position is rooted in biblical teachings focused on peace, dialogue and the protection of human life.
“The mission of the church is to preach the Gospel, to preach peace,” the pope said while rejecting Trump’s characterization of his views on Iran.
The renewed dispute comes just days before Marco Rubio is expected to travel to the Vatican for meetings with the pope and Italian officials in what observers believe may become a delicate diplomatic mission.
Rubio, who is Catholic, attempted to downplay the disagreement, saying Trump’s concerns are focused on preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and protecting global security.
The clash between Trump and Pope Leo has also spilled into Italian politics. Giorgia Meloni, a longtime Trump ally, reportedly expressed concern over the president’s comments targeting the pope.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani publicly defended Pope Leo, describing his calls for peace and dialogue as important for global stability and diplomacy.
Relations between Trump and the Vatican have remained strained in recent months over issues including immigration policy, military conflicts and Trump’s rhetoric toward international allies. Last month, Trump also faced criticism after sharing a social media image portraying himself in a Christ-like manner before later deleting the post.
Political analysts say the ongoing dispute could create additional complications for U.S.-Vatican relations ahead of the upcoming American midterm elections, particularly among Catholic voters who remain divided over Trump’s policies and remarks.