Tensions have arisen between Pope Leo XIV and U.S. President Donald Trump following the Pope’s comments on the Middle East war. Despite the friction, Pope Leo made it clear that he has no intention of engaging in any political debate. Speaking to journalists, he defended his earlier remarks, emphasizing that his message remains focused on peace, not politics.

Earlier, on Saturday, while Iranian and American negotiators met in Pakistan to discuss ending the war, Pope Leo urged the international community to stop what he called the “madness of war.” He also condemned the use of Christian religious language to justify conflict. In response, Trump reacted sharply, labeling the Pope as dangerous and criticizing him as weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy.

The exchange underscores growing tension between religious and political leaders over the ongoing Middle East conflict and the moral framing of warfare.