Donald Trump is preparing to deliver a Bible reading on television in the midst of his disagreement with Pope Leo XIV, who has been openly critical of the US and Israeli actions towards Iran.
The US president is scheduled to recite verses 11-22 from Chapter 7 of the Second Book of Chronicles at 6pm EST (11pm BST) on Tuesday as part of ‘America Reads the Bible’, a week-long program commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The initiative aims to honor the nation’s founding principles and encourage a reconnection with the enduring truths that guide us today.
Tensions between Trump and Leo have been escalating, with Senator John Kennedy recently condemning what he labeled as the president’s “holy war” against the Pope. In response to Trump’s threats against Iranian civilization, Leo criticized the actions as “unacceptable” and emphasized that any attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international laws. He urged people worldwide to pressure their political leaders to end the conflict in the Middle East.
Following these events, Trump faced criticism from various political factions, including some of his own supporters, after posting and later deleting an AI-generated image portraying himself as a Jesus-like figure healing a sick man. Just before sharing this image, Trump launched a scathing attack on the Pope on Truth Social, describing him as weak on crime and foreign policy.
Trump further asserted that the Pope was selected because of his American nationality, insinuating that his own presidency influenced the decision. In response, Leo expressed no fear of the Trump administration and reiterated his commitment to spreading the message of the Gospel.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the portrayal of Jesus in the image and expressed solidarity with the Pope. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a Catholic and a close ally of Trump, deemed the president’s comments about the Pope unacceptable, emphasizing the Pope’s role in advocating for peace.
Trump later shared another AI-generated image depicting himself in a religious context, suggesting a divine intervention. The image featured a Jesus-like figure embracing Trump, accompanied by a caption alluding to a higher power intervening in current events.
Trump’s actions have sparked controversy and differing opinions, highlighting the complex relationship between political figures and religious leaders on the global stage.