By Peter Omopo
United States President Donald Trump has criticised Pope Leo XIV over his recent anti-war message, describing the Catholic leader as “not a big fan” and accusing him of being weak on crime and foreign policy.
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, Trump said the pontiff’s position on global conflicts, particularly regarding Iran, was unacceptable.
“I’m not a big fan of Pope Leo. He’s a very liberal person, and he’s a man that doesn’t believe in stopping crime,” Trump said, adding that he did not support any stance that appeared to tolerate Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The remarks followed a public address by the Pope at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he called for an end to global conflicts and urged leaders to embrace peace.
“Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!” the pontiff declared while addressing worshippers.
Tensions between both figures intensified after the Pope criticised what he described as inflammatory rhetoric from the US leader and urged all parties involved in the Middle East crisis to return to negotiations.
The exchange comes amid ongoing diplomatic and military tensions involving the United States and Iran. Recent peace talks held in Islamabad ended without an agreement, with US Vice President JD Vance confirming that Washington had presented its “final and best offer,” which Tehran declined.
Despite a temporary ceasefire earlier announced during negotiations, talks stalled over Iran’s refusal to halt its nuclear programme.
Following the breakdown in negotiations, Trump ordered a naval blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit corridor, warning of severe consequences for any hostile actions.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, the US President stated that American naval forces would prevent vessels from entering or leaving the strait, vowing a strong response to any aggression.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo had welcomed the earlier ceasefire as a sign of hope and reiterated calls for sustained dialogue to achieve lasting peace.
The latest developments highlight growing divisions over the handling of the Middle East crisis, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
