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Pope Leo says world needs message of peace and coexistence
He said St. Augustine’s vision can help bridge Christian-Muslim differences and called the Algeria visit a sign of respect from local authorities.
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump escalated his feud with Pope Leo XIV via Truth Social, claiming Iran's pursuit of a nuclear bomb is 'absolutely unacceptable' and demanding the pontiff acknowledge the deaths.
Tensions intensified after the Pope criticized military operations in Iran; Vice President JD Vance advised Leo to be 'careful' when discussing Just War theory and theology at a Turning Point USA event Tuesday.
Trump alleged Iran has killed 'at least 42,000' innocent, unarmed protesters in the last two months, using this figure to argue that Iran obtaining a nuclear bomb remains 'absolutely unacceptable.'
Speaking from Africa on Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV doubled down, insisting 'the world needs to hear' a message of unity and peace as he continues facing criticism from Trump and Vice President Vance.
The pontiff's visit to Hippo, where Saint Augustine lived for more than 30 years, positions Leo's Africa tour as a spiritual counterweight to the Trump administration's military stance on Iran.