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In New York City, residents are responding to President Donald Trump's recent criticism of Pope Leo XIV regarding the ongoing war in Iran. Outside St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan, opinions were mixed as Trump called the pope "weak on crime" after Leo criticized Trump's military actions in Iran. The pontiff, the first U.S.-born pope, has openly stated he has no fear of the Trump administration and continues to advocate for peace.
On Monday, President Trump told reporters he would not apologize for his comments or for posting a controversial meme that depicted him as a Christ-like figure. Trump explained that the image was intended to portray him as a doctor, healing people. According to KSTP, Trump said, "I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor and it had to do with the Red Cross."
Pope Leo has been vocal about his opposition to the war, emphasizing the importance of peace and reconciliation. In a statement reported by CNN, the pope said, "I have no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel."
The reaction among New York's Catholic leaders has been varied. amNY reports that Archbishop Ronald Hicks supported the pope's stance, while the Catholic League criticized both leaders. Meanwhile, New York Governor Kathy Hochul used the incident to highlight differences between her leadership and that of her political opponent, Bruce Blakeman.
Despite the controversy, Trump remains steadfast in his criticism of Pope Leo, refusing to apologize and asserting that the pope is wrong. As the war in Iran continues, the dialogue between these two influential figures is expected to persist.
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