“Donald Trump responds to remarks from Pope Leo with a brief statement.”

Viral social media posts claim Pope Leo XIV criticized U.S. military actions in Iran and that Donald Trump responded with sharp rebuttals, but fact-checkers found no verified evidence supporting either the exchange or the pope’s existence.

Posts circulating on social media and unverified websites describe an alleged confrontation between Pope Leo XIV and Trump over Middle East policy. The narratives claim the pope issued warnings about escalating tensions during a public address at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

According to these unconfirmed accounts, the pope allegedly emphasized themes of peace, restraint, and moral responsibility among world leaders. The posts attribute criticism of military actions and warnings against civilian harm in conflict zones to the pontiff.