Pope Leo XIV, a U.S.-born pontiff who has been at the center of controversy in recent weeks, has hit back at President Donald Trump's scathing criticism over his stance on the U.S.-Israel war in Iran. In a statement to reporters, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Vatican's long-standing commitment to promoting peace and reconciliation, citing the teachings of the Gospel as the guiding principle behind their appeals. The Pope's remarks come as tensions between the Vatican and the Trump administration continue to escalate, with many observers wondering how long this high-stakes standoff will continue. As the global community watches with bated breath, one thing is clear: the Vatican's stance on this critical issue is not about to change anytime soon.
U.S.-born Pope Leo XIV pushed back Monday on President Donald Trump's broadside against him over the U.S.-Israel war in Iran, telling reporters that the Vatican's appeals for peace and reconciliation are rooted in the Gospel.