Trump Dismisses Meeting with Pope Leo XIV, Announces Lebanon Ceasefire

President Donald Trump dismissed the idea of meeting with Pope Leo XIV to resolve their escalating tensions over U.S. policy toward Iran and its nuclear program. Trump told reporters outside the White House that he has a right to disagree with the pope, emphasizing that he cannot allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon.

The comments came as Trump departed for Las Vegas to discuss tax policies. Trump reiterated his stance on Iran, stating that the pope's position could permit the country to develop nuclear weapons, which he views as unacceptable in his role as U.S. president.

He described the world as nasty and stressed the need for real-world decisions. The president also affirmed his commitment to the gospel but prioritized national security.

XIV posted a message on social media warning against manipulating religion and God's name for military, economic, or political gain. The post, which described such actions as dragging the sacred into darkness and filth, followed Trump's criticism of the pope.

Many interpreted the message as a response to the Trump administration's actions in the Middle East. The pope's statement came amid broader criticism from Trump and Vice President JD Vance after the pope called for peace in the region. Sources reported this as part of an ongoing clash, with the pope facing a significant test in his papacy over the Iran conflict.

The Vatican has not folded in the face of U.S. pressure. EST. He described having excellent conversations with the leaders of both countries, leading to the agreement. The ceasefire follows talks in Washington involving U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance.

The discussions marked the first high-level contact between Israeli and Lebanese representatives in 34 years. Israeli officials stated the talks aim to address threats from Hezbollah, while Lebanese officials expressed hope for an end to suffering. Trump posted on Truth Social that this marks his 10th success in ending wars.

Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, has been exchanging fire with Israel since October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking over 240 hostages. Skirmishes continued during the peace talks. Trump indicated that Hezbollah would be included in the ceasefire.

The U.S.-Iran ceasefire does not apply to Israel's campaign in Lebanon, according to reports. Israel destroyed the last operational bridge over Lebanon's Litani River hours before the announcement. Hezbollah rejected the talks, with one member warning of potential divisions in Lebanon.

Iran has stopped all petrochemical exports to prioritize domestic supply and prevent shortages, as ordered by the state-owned National Petrochemical Company. This follows U.S. imposition of a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz to cut off Iran's trade.

Iran has demanded ships deviate into its waters for inspection by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The blockade stipulates no ship that complies with Iran's demands can pass through U.S.-controlled areas. Tehran has continued selling oil by allowing selected vessels to pay tolls.

The situation tests endurance between the U.S. and Iran amid the ongoing war.

The clash between Trump and Pope Leo XIV has sparked a debate over 'just war' theology, following U.S. attacks on Iran. Republican leaders denounced the pope's comments on the strikes. Trump posted and later deleted an image appearing to depict him as Jesus, which he claimed showed him as a doctor.

The tensions escalated after Trump's Truth Social criticism of the pope. The president is headed to Las Vegas to highlight tax cuts signed into law last year, seen by Republicans as an economic strength ahead of midterms. Reporters questioned Trump on various topics, including the papal dispute.