Donald Trump sparked global alarm after warning he could wipe out “a whole civilization” ahead of a U.S.–Iran ceasefire reached Tuesday evening. The conflict had lasted over a month before both sides agreed to a two-week truce just before Trump’s deadline.
Trump later called the deal a “total and complete victory,” saying Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and that a final agreement could come within two weeks. Earlier, his remarks raised fears of escalation and even nuclear conflict.
The threat drew widespread backlash from U.S. politicians, public figures, and world leaders. Pope Leo XIV also condemned the rhetoric, urging peace and warning against attacks on civilians, which violate international law. He called on leaders to return to negotiations and on citizens to demand peace.
Trump has not responded to the Pope’s criticism.