Vance Says Pope Leo Should Be More Careful When Talking About Theology
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Vice President JD Vance defended the U.S. bombing of Iran by invoking World War II, countering Pope Leo XIV's criticism that Christians should not support war or violence.
- Vance argued that God supported the Americans who liberated France from the Nazis, directly challenging the pope's statement that disciples of Christ should never back those who "wield the sword and drop bombs."
- The dispute highlights tensions between the Trump administration and the Catholic Church, with President Trump personally attacking Pope Leo XIV on social media following the pope's antiwar stance.
- Pope Leo XIV maintained his opposition to the war, emphasizing his commitment to peace and justice without directly naming Trump or Iran.
- Despite the disagreement, Vance expressed personal respect and admiration for the pope, urging careful theological discussion from both religious and political leaders.
