Trump Criticizes Pope Leo XIV Amid Iran Blockade

President Donald Trump sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV on April 12, 2026, accusing the pontiff of weakness on foreign policy and interfering in American affairs, as the United States imposed a naval blockade on Iran's Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

The blockade, ordered by Trump and enforced by U.S. Central Command starting early Monday, aims to restrict Iranian maritime access in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Officials described it as a response to Iran's alleged provocations, including threats to global oil supplies. Tankers have begun rerouting, contributing to a surge in oil prices and concerns over potential disruptions to international trade routes.

Trump's remarks came hours after the pope's Palm Sunday address in Rome, where Leo XIV urged global leaders to reject war and lay down weapons. Born in Chicago and elevated to the papacy last year, the American pontiff has repeatedly called for peace in conflicts involving Iran and Venezuela, emphasizing that God rejects prayers from those who wage war. "Christ, King of Peace, cries out again from his cross: God is love! Have mercy!" Leo stated to worshippers.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump...