A photo collage of US President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV / XINHUA

Pope Leo XIV has dismissed criticism from US President Donald Trump, saying he will not be drawn into political confrontation but will continue to speak out on global crises and human suffering.

The rare public clash follows a sharp attack by Trump, who in a Truth Social post described the pontiff as “WEAK on Crime and terrible for Foreign Policy,” before later telling reporters he was “not a big fan.”

But the Pope responded with restraint, insisting his focus remains on delivering the message of the gospel rather than engaging in political disputes.

He said he would “not get into a debate” with the US leader, emphasising that the Church’s mission is to speak out on issues affecting humanity.

The remarks come at a time of heightened global tensions, with the Pope warning that too many innocent lives are being lost in conflicts around the world.

He strongly criticised recent threats attributed to Trump against Iran, including a warning that “a whole civilization will die tonight,” describing such language as unacceptable and dangerous.

The pontiff called for de-escalation and dialogue, maintaining that war rhetoric risks catastrophic consequences.

The Vatican has historically advocated for peaceful resolution of conflicts, often urging diplomacy over military action in volatile regions.

Beyond foreign policy, the Pope also took issue with Trump’s domestic agenda, particularly on immigration.

He questioned whether leaders who identify as “pro-life” can support policies he described as inhumane towards migrants, shifting the debate to a broader moral framework.

By linking the sanctity of life to the treatment of vulnerable communities, the Pope argued that defending life must extend beyond opposition to abortion.

The exchange reflects a wider ideological divide between religious leadership and political authority, especially on issues of war, migration and human rights.

Despite the criticism, the Pope has maintained a consistent stance, using his platform to denounce violence and advocate for compassion and justice.

The Vatican has long positioned itself as a moral voice on global affairs, often weighing in on humanitarian crises and ethical concerns, regardless of political pressure.

Observers note that such confrontations are not new, as popes have historically engaged with world leaders on contentious issues, particularly where human dignity and peace are at stake.