Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has condemned recent remarks made by the President of the United States, Donald Trump, against the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, saying the comments are unacceptable.
The disagreement comes amid growing tensions between Trump and Pope Leo XIV over the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The Pope has expressed concern about the war, arguing that it began under unclear circumstances and urging the involved parties to pursue dialogue and peaceful negotiations.
Trump, however, has maintained a tougher stance, insisting that the United States will continue confronting Iran until it abandons what Washington describes as efforts to develop nuclear weapons.
On Sunday, April 13, 2026, Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV in a message posted on his Truth Social platform, claiming the pontiff was weak and lacked competence in foreign policy matters.
He said, “Pope Leo XIV is weak on crime and incompetent when it comes to foreign policy.”
Reacting to the statement, Meloni strongly criticized Trump’s remarks, saying such comments directed at the leader of the Catholic Church should not be tolerated.
“President Trump’s words about His Holiness are not acceptable,” Meloni said. “The Pope is the leader of the Catholic Church, and it is natural for him to call for peace and condemn any form of war.”
Meloni also voiced her support for Pope Leo XIV’s call for an end to the conflict and for diplomatic solutions through dialogue.
The exchange between Trump and Pope Leo XIV has sparked international debate, with several political and religious leaders emphasizing the role of the Catholic Church in advocating for peace and humanitarian values during global conflicts.
