The Iranian government has strongly reacted to recent remarks and online posts involving Pope Leo XIV, US President Donald Trump, and wider tensions over calls for peace in West Asia, amid a wave of political and religious controversy spreading across social media and official statements.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a sharp condemnation after what he described as an “insult” directed at Pope Leo XIV. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Pezeshkian said he was speaking on behalf of the Iranian people and criticised any perceived disrespect toward religious figures, particularly referencing Jesus Christ as a symbol of peace and brotherhood. His remarks framed the controversy as one that offended broader religious sensitivities.

The reaction followed the circulation of an AI-generated image shared by Donald Trump that depicted him in a Jesus Christ-like form. The image quickly sparked backlash online and among critics, prompting its removal from his account. The post appeared shortly after Trump criticised Pope Leo XIV’s statements regarding ongoing conflicts and US foreign policy.

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Trump’s comments also included direct criticism of the Pope, where he accused him of being “weak on crime” and questioned his stance on international issues, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He further argued that religious institutions faced restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, framing his criticism within broader concerns about governance, security, and religious freedom.

In contrast, Pope Leo XIV had recently reiterated that his mission is not political, but spiritual. Speaking during remarks tied to his African tour, he emphasized the role of the Church in promoting peace, stating that his message is rooted in the Gospel and focused on supporting peacemakers rather than engaging in political disputes.

The exchange has added another layer of tension to already strained international discussions, with political leaders, religious figures, and public commentators weighing in. While Iran has framed its response as a defense of religious respect and peace advocacy, the broader debate continues to unfold across diplomatic and online spaces, reflecting deep divisions over war, religion, and global leadership.

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