President Donald Trump has repeatedly made false accusations that Pope Leo XIV supports Iran possessing nuclear weapons, instructing Secretary of State Marco Rubio to convey this message to the pontiff. Rubio met with Pope Leo, a meeting marked by an awkward gift exchange where the Pope offered an olive branch and Rubio presented a crystal football. Trump explicitly told reporters he instructed Rubio to tell the Pope that “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon” and that “Iran killed 42,000 innocent protesters.”
Rubio Echoes Trump's Claims
Rubio, while denying Trump's claim that the Pope's pleas for peace endangered Catholics, echoed the sentiment that he could not understand why anyone, including the Pope, would support Iran having nuclear weapons. The Pope has consistently advocated against nuclear proliferation and for peace, directly refuting Trump's claims by stating the Church has long opposed all nuclear weapons.
Background of the Dispute
Trump has repeatedly stated on television that the Pope supports Iran's nuclear ambitions, a claim that lacks evidence. The Vatican has clarified its position, emphasizing its longstanding opposition to nuclear weapons. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the Holy See on foreign policy issues.
