Aboard the papal plane

Pope Leo XIV on Monday responded to criticism from Donald Trump over comments linked to the US-Israel war in Iran, saying the Vatican’s calls for peace and reconciliation are rooted in the Gospel.

Speaking to The Associated Press aboard the papal plane, the first American-born pope said comparing his message to the president’s actions reflected a misunderstanding of the Gospel’s teachings.

He said he regretted the criticism but would continue what he believes is the mission of the Church in the world today.

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Pope Leo XIV also said he was not directly attacking Trump or any individual through his broader appeals for peace and his criticism of the “delusion of omnipotence,” which he said was fuelling the Iran conflict and other wars globally.