U.S. President, Donald Trump, has sparked fresh controversy after launching a new attack on Pope Leo while also announcing a planned blockade of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking to reporters, Trump criticized the Pope’s leadership, saying, “I don’t think he’s doing a very good job,” and accusing him of holding positions he claimed were lenient on crime and global security issues. “We don’t like a pope who says it’s ok to have a nuclear weapon… I am not a fan of Pope Leo,” he added.
In a separate statement, Trump confirmed that a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would begin at 10 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, describing it as part of a broader international effort to restrict Iran’s ability to sell oil.
“At 10 am tomorrow, we have a blockade going into effect. Other nations are working so that Iran will not be able to sell oil, and that will be very effective,” Trump said.
Addressing ongoing tensions with Iran, Trump also downplayed the need for renewed negotiations, stating he was unconcerned about whether Tehran returns to the table.
“Oh, I don’t know, I don’t care if they don’t come back, or not. I’m fine,” he said, claiming Iran’s military strength and missile capabilities had been significantly weakened.
Trump further accused Iran of breaking its promise to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, a key global oil transit route, escalating rhetoric that could heighten geopolitical tensions in the region.
