Summary
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Doctrine has supported Pope Leo XIV’s comments calling for peace in the U.S.-Israel war with Iran. This statement responded to President Donald Trump’s criticism of the Pope’s remarks, emphasizing that the Pope’s views align with long-standing Catholic teachings on war.
Key Facts
- The USCCB Committee on Doctrine defended Pope Leo XIV’s call for political leaders to seek peace in the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict.
- President Donald Trump criticized the Pope on social media, calling him "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy," without naming him directly.
- The Committee said the Pope’s statements are rooted in the Catholic Church’s just war theory, which permits war only for self-defense after peace efforts fail.
- Bishop James Massa, chairman of the committee, explained that the Church’s teaching requires war to be a defense against an active aggressor.
- The Pope’s role as the Church’s leader means his comments reflect Church doctrine, not just personal opinions.
- This official backing from the USCCB clarifies the Church’s position amid tensions between President Trump and the Pope.
- The Committee on Doctrine usually intervenes only when Church teachings on important matters are challenged or misunderstood.
- It is unclear if Pope Leo XIV will respond further to President Trump’s remarks.
