Pope Leo XIV Condemns Trump's Threat to Destroy Iranian Civilization as Unacceptable

U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to destroy Iranian civilization as "truly unacceptable" on Tuesday. He made the remarks as he departed his residence in Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome. The pope emphasized that attacks on civilian infrastructure contravene international law.

Trump's statement referenced a scenario where "a whole civilization will die tonight" if Iran does not meet a deadline to negotiate a deal, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. -Israeli war in Iran, which he noted has been described by some as unjust and escalating without resolution. He recalled his Easter appeal for peace and rejection of war.

recent weeks, Leo XIV has intensified his public opposition to the conflict, moving beyond initial calls for dialogue.

" This marks a departure from the Vatican's tradition of diplomatic neutrality, as popes rarely criticize specific political leaders by name. The pope addressed his comments in English, urging Americans and others to contact political leaders and congressional representatives.

He highlighted global challenges including an economic crisis, energy crisis, and instability in the Middle East that the war exacerbates.

“Today as we all know there was this threat against all the people of Iran.”

“— Pope Leo XIV, April 9, 2024 (AP via Boston Globe)”

The Vatican expressed particular worry about the conflict's spillover into a renewed war in Lebanon between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group. Christians in southern Lebanon, a key community for the church, face heightened risks. Earlier Tuesday, the Vatican issued a message from Leo XIV to residents of Debel, Lebanon, following the cancellation of an Easter aid convoy carrying over 40 tons of supplies.

Lebanon's Maronite Church cited security reasons for preventing the convoy's arrival. The papal message, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, conveyed solidarity with Lebanese Christians enduring injustices.

“— Pope Leo XIV, April 9, 2024 (Boston Globe)”

Leo XIV visited Lebanon late last year on his first international trip as pope. He called for political leaders to return to negotiations, emphasizing solutions that protect innocent civilians, including children, the elderly, and the sick affected by the warfare.