Donald Trump claimed Pope Leo XIV supports Iran having nuclear weapons. Evidence shows the pope has consistently opposed nuclear arms.
Donald Trump claimed that Pope Leo XIV “thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.” The claim is false and contradicts the pope’s documented positions.
There is no evidence that Pope Leo XIV has ever supported nuclear weapons for Iran or any country. On the contrary, he has consistently spoken against nuclear arms and warned about their devastating consequences.
The Vatican’s long-standing position further reinforces this stance. The Holy See has repeatedly advocated for nuclear disarmament and supported international agreements aimed at eliminating nuclear weapons, including backing the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
Trump’s statement appears to stem from criticism the pope made about war and global conflict, particularly regarding tensions involving Iran. However, those remarks focused on peace and de-escalation—not support for nuclear proliferation.
Independent fact-checkers found that Trump’s claim misrepresents the pope’s views entirely. In reality, the pope’s public statements emphasize diplomacy, peace, and opposition to weapons of mass destruction.
There is no credible reporting, official statement, or verified record supporting the idea that Pope Leo XIV endorses Iran—or any nation—possessing nuclear weapons.
Final Verdict: Pants on Fire 🔥 The claim is not only inaccurate but contradicts the pope’s clear and consistent opposition to nuclear weapons.