Vance Defends U.S. Bombing Amid Pope's Antiwar Stance

Vice President Vance rebukes Pope Leo XIV's criticism of U.S. military action as 'not anchored in the truth'.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:05am

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A dynamic, abstract painting of overlapping geometric shapes in shades of grey, blue, and red, conceptually representing the chaos and destruction of war without depicting any specific people, places, or events.As tensions escalate between the White House and the Vatican over the U.S. bombing of Iran, the political debate exposes deep divisions over the morality of modern warfare.Athens Today

Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic, criticized Pope Leo XIV for condemning the U.S. bombing of Iran, invoking World War II to defend the military action. Vance told a conservative audience that the pope was wrong to say disciples of Christ are 'never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs,' arguing God was on the side of Americans who liberated France from the Nazis.

Why it matters

The back-and-forth between the White House and the Catholic Church highlights the challenge the Trump administration faces in justifying an unpopular war, as it tries to maintain support from the conservative and religious voters who helped elect the president.

The details

Vance, who is publishing a book about his path to Catholicism, admonished the pope, saying his comments on theology need to be 'anchored in the truth.' However, Vance also played down the political disagreement, saying he respects and admires the pope, even when they disagree on issues.

  • On April 14, 2026, Vice President Vance criticized Pope Leo XIV's comments on the U.S. bombing of Iran.
  • On April 13, 2026, Pope Leo XIV condemned the U.S. bombing, saying disciples of Christ are 'never on the side of those who once wielded the sword and today drop bombs.'

The players

JD Vance

The Vice President of the United States, who is Catholic and has courted the Republican religious base.

Pope Leo XIV

The first American-born Pope, who has taken an antiwar stance and condemned the U.S. bombing of Iran.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who has appeared stung by the Pope's criticism of the war and lashed out at him on social media.

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What they’re saying

“Was God on the side of the Americans who liberated France from the Nazis? I certainly think the answer is yes.”

— JD Vance, Vice President

“God's heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice and lies.”

— Pope Leo XIV

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.