The Archbishop of Canterbury has expressed her support for Pope Leo XIV’s appeal for peace amidst his ongoing conflict with President Donald Trump.
Following the U.S. president’s objections to the Pope’s remarks about a “delusion of omnipotence” contributing to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli tensions in Iran, Sarah Mullally encouraged Anglicans to rally behind the Pope’s “brave” message.
This statement was issued shortly after the Pope cautioned that the world is being “devastated by a few tyrants.”
Mullally stated, “I stand united with my brother in Christ, His Holiness Pope XIV, in his courageous plea for a realm of peace. As countless innocents face death and displacement, families are shattered, and futures are obliterated, the toll of warfare on humanity is immeasurable.”
She called upon Christians to “actively engage in prayer and efforts for peace.” Although she did not explicitly mention Trump, she remarked, “It is essential that we urge all those in positions of political authority to explore all possible peaceful and just avenues for conflict resolution.”
Mullally, who is set to visit Rome later this month to meet and pray with the Pope, added, “I encourage Anglicans throughout the Church of England and the wider Anglican communion to join His Holiness in advocating for peace and justice globally.”
The Pope’s remarks regarding “delusion” were made during evening prayer at the Vatican as negotiations between the U.S. and Iran commenced in Pakistan. While he did not directly name the U.S. or Trump, the implications of his comments seemed aimed at them.
In response, Trump issued a lengthy social media statement, labeling the Chicago-born Pope as “WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy,” insinuating that his appointment was intended to facilitate dealings with him.
Trump also remarked to reporters, “I’m not a fan of Pope Leo,” and shared an AI-generated image depicting himself in a Christ-like role, which he later removed.
On Monday, while traveling to Algeria, the Pope addressed journalists, clarifying that he is not a politician and does not wish to engage in a debate with Trump. He asserted, “I am not afraid of the Trump administration and will speak openly about the gospel’s message, which I believe is my purpose, as well as that of the Church.”
During a recent four-nation tour in Africa, the Pope continued to vocally condemn warfare and advocate for peace. At a cathedral in Bamenda, Cameroon, he stated, “Blessed are the peacemakers. However, those who exploit religion and the sacred name of God for their military, economic, and political agendas, dragging what is holy into darkness and corruption, will face consequences.”
He added, “While a few tyrants devastate the world, it is sustained by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters.”
Criticism of Trump’s derogatory remarks towards the Pope has emerged from various sources, including Italy’s far-right Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, who, despite sharing ideological views with Trump, labeled his comments as “unacceptable” towards the Holy Father.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, a recent Catholic convert, has called on the Vatican to “focus on moral issues and allow the President of the United States to manage American public policy.”
