Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday sharply criticized Donald Trump over remarks threatening the destruction of Iranian civilization, calling such rhetoric “truly unacceptable” and a violation of international law.
Speaking from Castel Gandolfo, the pope warned against escalating conflict, stressing that attacks on civilian infrastructure breach global legal standards and reflect “hatred, division, and destruction.” He urged Americans and people worldwide to pressure their political leaders and congressional representatives to reject war and pursue peaceful solutions.
Referring to recent tensions, Leo highlighted Trump’s warning that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran fails to meet U.S. demands, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He reiterated his earlier Easter message calling for peace, describing the ongoing conflict as unjust and ineffective in resolving issues.
In a notable shift from the Vatican’s tradition of diplomatic neutrality, the American-born pontiff has intensified his tone in recent weeks, even previously naming Trump directly while expressing hope for a diplomatic resolution.
The pope also pointed to the broader consequences of the conflict, citing a worsening global economic and energy crisis alongside rising instability in the Middle East. He appealed to leaders to return to dialogue, emphasizing the suffering of innocent civilians, including children, the elderly, and the sick.
The Vatican remains particularly concerned about the spillover of violence into Lebanon, especially renewed clashes involving Hezbollah, which threaten Christian communities in the region. Leo expressed solidarity with Christians in southern Lebanon, comparing their hardships to Christ’s suffering and offering a message of hope amid ongoing turmoil.
