Trump Attacks Pope Leo XIV Over Iran War Criticism, Calls Him Weak on Crime

President Donald Trump escalated a rare feud with Pope Leo XIV by publicly attacking the pope as weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy.

Trump posted an AI-generated image depicting himself as a Jesus-like figure, which was later deleted.

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The pope responded by saying he had no fear of the Trump administration and that he was here to do what the church is here to do.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned Trump's comments as unacceptable.

The exchange came after Trump threatened that a whole civilization will die tonight in Iran.

Pope Leo XIV embarked on a 10-day African mission focused on peace and reconciliation.

He emphasized that his role is spiritual, not political.

ABC

The Vatican declined an invitation for the pope to visit the United States on July 4.

The pope's approval rating transcends politics.

Trump's attacks risk alienating Catholic voters who backed him in 2024.

Trump's attacks sparked backlash from Catholic leaders and voters.

Archbishop Paul S. Coakley said the pope is not a politician but speaks from the teachings of the Church.

A Fox News poll found that only 48% of Catholics approve of Trump's overall performance.

The pope's message on war and migration had already set him apart from the administration.

The feud threatens to complicate the political landscape for Trump and his Catholic allies.