← Back to news
April 18, 2026
Pope Leo XIV Declines Debate with Trump Amid Tensions
- Pope Leo XIV stated it is 'not in my interest at all' to debate President Donald Trump regarding the U.S. war with Iran.
- The Pope condemned Trump's threats against Iran as 'truly unacceptable' and emphasized his mission of peace during his African tour.
- Trump's recent comments included calling the Pope 'weak' and accusing him of catering to the Radical Left, prompting further backlash from Christian communities.
4 Sources
- After war of words on Iran, Pope Leo says he's not interested in a debate with TrumpApr 18, 2026 at 2:57 PM · NBC
- Pope Leo: Debating Trump ‘not in my interest at all’Apr 18, 2026 at 4:37 PM · The Hill
- Pope Leo says ‘not in my interest at all’ to debate Trump after president’s Truth Social meltdown at pontiff over Iran remarksApr 18, 2026 at 7:30 PM · Independent
- Vance says he's 'grateful' for Pope Leo's statement on not wanting public debate with TrumpApr 19, 2026 at 1:10 AM · The Hill