‘America Is Back’: Trump Targets Pope Leo Again, Says Nuclear Bomb For Iran ‘Absolutely Unacceptable’

Last Updated:April 15, 2026, 09:38 IST

Trump renewed his attacks on Pope Leo XIV over his anti war stance, claims Iran killed 42000 protesters and must not get nuclear arms.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday renewed his attack on Pope Leo XIV, a day after criticising him over his stance on the ongoing war involving the US and Israel. Trump said Iran had killed at least 42,000 unarmed protesters in the past two months and called it “unacceptable" for the country to possess a nuclear weapon.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “Will someone please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable. Thank you for your attention to this matter. AMERICA IS BACK!!!" 

Earlier, Trump had made a controversial claim that Pope Leo became the head of the Catholic Church because of his influence. He suggested that the Church chose an American Pope to deal with him. 

The Pope, who is from Chicago, is the first American to hold the position. Trump also said, without evidence, that Leo was not initially considered for the role and was selected only because of his nationality.

What Pope said?

Pope Leo said he was not afraid to speak out. He stated that he would continue to oppose war and promote peace through dialogue and cooperation among nations. He said many people are suffering and innocent lives are being lost, adding that someone must speak up for a better path.

While the Pope did not name Trump directly, he continued to criticise war. During a prayer vigil at St Peter’s Basilica, he called for an end to the display of power and conflict. He also urged leaders to take responsibility and work towards peace, calling for an immediate end to violence.

News world ‘America Is Back’: Trump Targets Pope Leo Again, Says Nuclear Bomb For Iran ‘Absolutely Unacceptable’

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