Pope pledges to keep speaking against war, Trump draws outrage for AI Jesus-like image of self

Pope Leo, the first American-born pontiff, has emerged as a vocal critic of the US-Israeli war on Iran, decrying the "madness of war." During his flight to Algiers for a 10-day tour of four African countries, he reiterated his commitment to speaking out against conflict and promoting peace through dialogue and multilateral relationships.

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I don't want to get into a debate with him. I don't think that the message of the Gospel is meant to be abused in the way that some people are doing

"I will continue to speak out loudly against war, looking to promote peace, promoting dialog and multilateral relationships among the states to look for just solutions to problems," Pope Leo told Reuters. He emphasized that "too many people are suffering in the world today" and that "someone has to stand up and say: 'There's a better way.'" The Pope also commented on the "abuse" of the Gospel's message by some individuals.

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I will continue to speak out loudly against war, looking to promote peace, promoting dialog and multilateral relationships among the states to look for just solutions to problems

In response to the Pope's criticisms of the war and US immigration policies, President Donald Trump attacked the pontiff on social media, calling him "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy." Trump also posted an AI-generated image of himself as a Jesus-like figure, which he later claimed was meant to portray him as a doctor. This post drew widespread criticism and could potentially alienate some of his religious conservative supporters.

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Too many people are suffering in the world today. Too many innocent people are being killed. And I think someone has to stand up and say: 'There's a better way'

Pope Leo, in turn, stated he has "no fear" of the Trump administration and would continue his advocacy. In a speech in Algiers, he denounced "neocolonial" world powers violating international law, though he did not name the United States directly. The pontiff's stance highlights a growing tension between religious leadership and political powers regarding global conflicts and humanitarian issues.

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The message of the church, my message, the message of the Gospel: Blessed are the Peacemakers. I do not look at my role as being political, a politician