The tensions in the Middle East, where thousands of civilians have been affected and infrastructure has been heavily damaged, has brought many calls to end the war.
Among them were from world leaders, organizations, and even ordinary citizens.
However, the calls of peace grew much larger when the Catholic religious sect—the world largest religion in the world—had their genuine say.
This is mirrored from the Pope himself, who has urged Iran, Israel, and the United States to pursue dialogue instead of violence, through messages shared on social media and from the Vatican.
In late March, Pope Leo XIV even directly appealed to United States President Donald Trump to find what he described as an “off-ramp” to ease tensions in the region.
However, his messages did not sit well with the US President.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump slammed the Pope, calling him weak on issues like crime and nuclear weapons, and questioning his understanding of foreign policy.
He also suggested that the Pope was elected because he was influenced by being American.
Thus, he urged the pontiff to use his common sense and act as a religious leader rather than a politician.
However, the Pope responded calmly.
During an interview while on a flight to Algeria, he clarified that he does not see himself as a politician and has no intention of engaging in debate.
He emphasized that his role is to promote peace and the message of the Church, especially at a time when many lives are being affected by conflict.
He also stressed that he is not afraid of the Trump administration, saying he is simply fulfilling his calling as a leader of the Church.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the criticism directed at the Pope.
In a post on X, Pezeshkian said such insults are unacceptable and go against religious values.