US House Speaker says Pope Leo XIV should be prepared for Trump's response

Washington (ANTARA) - US House Speaker Mike Johnson said that Pope Leo XIV should be prepared for a response from US President Donald Trump after weighing in on the conflict with Iran. “A religious leader can say whatever they want, but it’s clear that if you enter the political realm, you must be ready for various political reactions, and I think Pope Leo XIV has received that response,” Johnson said during a press conference. Pope Leo XIV has criticised US actions in Iran. Specifically, Pope Leo XIV stated that US threats against the Iranian people are unacceptable. In early April, after US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth called for prayers for military personnel, the Pope stated in his homily that the desire to dominate over something is not in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ. Then, on Sunday (12/4), Trump rebuked Pope Leo XIV by saying that the Pope would not be the supreme leader of the Catholic Church worldwide if not for Trump being in the White House. Pope Leo XIV then responded on Monday (13/4) by saying that he is not afraid of the Trump administration and will not engage in a public debate with Trump. Pope Leo XIV emphasised that although his interest is to preach the Gospel, he will continue to speak out loudly against war.