POLITICS

Trump Publicly Attacks Pope Leo XIV Over Iran

PUBLISHED Apr 12, 2026, 11:21 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 100%

Sources: 12

Washington — President Donald Trump publicly attacked Pope Leo XIV on April 13, posting on Truth Social that the pontiff is “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy” after the pope criticized U.S. and Israeli actions related to the Iran conflict. Trump repeated the remarks to reporters after returning to Washington from Florida, citing concerns about Iran and nuclear weapons. The exchanges followed Pope Leo’s recent calls for de-escalation and his Palm Sunday remarks rejecting leaders who start wars; they prompted coverage across international outlets this week and included a subsequent AI-generated image posted by the president depicting himself in a religious scene. Vatican spokespeople and U.S. officials did not issue immediate policy changes, and diplomats may pursue quiet engagement in coming days.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Feb 28, 2026: Conflict involving U.S. and Israel and Iran is reported to have begun.
Last year: Leo becomes the first U.S.-born pope and begins commenting on global conflicts.
Palm Sunday last month: Pope Leo condemns leaders who start wars and calls for off-ramps.
April 13, 2026: President Trump posts critical messages about Pope Leo on Truth Social and speaks to reporters.
Mid-April 2026: Trump posts an AI-generated image depicting himself in a biblical scene, amplifying coverage.

News Intelligence

This public spat between Trump and Pope Leo could affect U.S. relations with the Vatican and other nations. It might also impact how the Iran conflict is handled. Stay informed by following updates on this issue.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12

Who Benefited

Political allies and segments of President Trump’s electoral base may gain political momentum from his rhetoric, consolidating support among voters emphasizing law-and-order, national security, and conservative cultural priorities.

Who Impacted

The Vatican, Catholic community members critical of U.S. policy, and U.S.–Vatican diplomatic relations may face reputational strain and increased diplomatic friction due to the public dispute.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

The Vatican, Catholic community members critical of U.S. policy, and U.S.–Vatican diplomatic relations may face reputational strain and increased diplomatic friction due to the public dispute.