Pope Leo XIV Condemns Trump’s Threat to Iranian Civilization

Pope Leo XIV condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to destroy Iranian civilization on April 7, 2026, describing the statement as truly unacceptable. The Pope stated that any military attacks targeting civilian infrastructure are in violation of international law.

The remarks were made as the Pope left his residence in Castel Gandolfo. He urged global leaders to return to diplomatic negotiations and seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war, noting that the current situation in the Middle East is only provoking more hatred.

Pope Leo XIV’s criticism follows a specific threat from President Trump that a whole civilization will die tonight if Iran does not reach a deal with the United States. The Pope called on citizens in the involved countries to contact their political leaders and urge them to reject war in favor of peace.

Call for Humanitarian Consideration

During his address, the Pope emphasized the human cost of the escalating conflict, specifically calling for the protection of vulnerable populations.

Let’s remember especially the innocent children, the elderly, the sick, so many people who have already become or will become victims of this continued warfare

Pope Leo XIV

The Pope referenced his previous Urbi et Orbi message delivered on Sunday, April 6, 2026, in which he asked people of goodwill to reject violence. He characterized the continuing escalation as an unjust war that has failed to resolve the underlying issues.

U.S. Administration Response

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly responded to the Pope’s comments in a statement to Politico. Kelly asserted that the Iranian people welcome the sound of bombs because it indicates that their oppressors are losing.

The spokesperson stated that the President intends to stand with innocent civilians while annihilating the terrorists who have threatened the United States and the world with nuclear weapons. Kelly added that further destruction could be avoided if the Iranian regime recognizes the seriousness of the situation and agrees to a deal with the U.S.

Current Conflict Status

The diplomatic tension arrives amidst a broader U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. A critical point of contention is the Strait of Hormuz, which has been almost entirely closed for several weeks.

President Trump has issued a deadline of 8 p.m. On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, for Iran to reopen the strait. Failure to meet this deadline is linked to the threats of increased military action and the potential targeting of civilian infrastructure.

In response to the threats of military escalation, Archbishop Coakley has invited the public to join a vigil for peace organized by Pope Leo XIV.