Why I Can’t Debate President Trump After he Slammed me Over Iran— Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV has stated that he has no plans to engage in any form of public argument with president Donald Trump, following criticism from the American leader over his remarks on the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran.

Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane on Monday as he travelled to Algeria for his first official visit to Africa, the pope made his position clear.

“I am not a politician,” he said, distancing himself from political disputes. He added, “I have no intention to debate with (Trump). The message is the same: to promote peace.”

His response comes amid rising global concern over the situation between the United States and Iran, which has attracted reactions from leaders across the world.

Despite the criticism, Pope Leo XIV maintained a composed stance, emphasizing that his focus remains on peacebuilding rather than political confrontation.