Following recent verbal attacks from US President Donald Trump, Pope Leo XIV has reiterated his rejection of nuclear weapons.
“For years, the Church has spoken out against all nuclear weapons, so there is no doubt on that point,” Leo told journalists on Tuesday evening before departing Castel Gandolfo, the pope's summer residence, for Rome.
“I simply hope to be listened to because of the value of the word of God,” he added.
Trump, in an interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, said the pontiff was endangering "many Catholics and many people" and accused US-born Leo of thinking it was acceptable for Iran to possess a nuclear weapon.
Leo has repeatedly spoken out against the Iran war launched by the United States and Israel and called for a ceasefire and dialogue.