Pope says Trump’s threat to destroy Iranian civilization is ‘unacceptable’
ROME — Pope Leo XIV condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to destroy Iranian civilization as “truly unacceptable” on Tuesday. He emphasized that any attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law.
In one of his most forceful statements against war, Pope Leo urged Americans and other people of good will to reach out to their political leaders and congressional representatives to demand peace and reject any military actions.
“Today, as we are all aware, there was a threat made against the people of Iran. This is completely unacceptable,” he stated as he departed from his residence in Castel Gandolfo, located south of Rome.
His remarks were in response to Trump’s warning that a “whole civilization will perish tonight” if Iran does not meet his latest deadline for a deal that involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Pope Leo reiterated his Easter message calling for peace and the rejection of war, especially unjust conflicts that only lead to further escalation and do not bring about any resolutions.
He urged individuals of goodwill to contact their political representatives to remind them that targeting civilian infrastructure goes against international law and signifies the destructive capabilities of humanity. The ultimate goal should always be to strive for peace.
