Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in the Easter message, while Trump continues aggressive rhetoric. The conflict with Iran escalates.

In the Easter messages, Pope Leo XIV and American Catholic leaders issued a strong call for peace, urging an end to war, in the context of rising tensions with Iran. The pontiff, the first pope born in the USA, urged those who "unleash wars" to lay down their arms, in contrast to the increasingly aggressive rhetoric of President Donald Trump, who has threatened Iran with severe reprisals. The Pope emphasized the importance of dialogue and choosing peace, not force, while Archbishop Timothy Broglio stated that war is always the last resort. Despite calls for peace, the Trump administration maintains an aggressive stance, and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the president's military rhetoric, highlighting the importance of prayers for American troops. The Pope has repeatedly criticized the war in Iran, while Trump has threatened attacks on Iranian infrastructure if an agreement is not reached.