Trump removes Jesus-like image from social media amid public outcry

US President Donald Trump Posts AI-Generated Image of Himself as Jesus-Like Figure, Criticizes Pope

Washington D.C. - US President Donald Trump has faced criticism from church leaders and conservatives after posting an image on his social media platform, Truth Social, that showed him in a white robe with his hand on a man’s head, resembling a healing scene. The image was later deleted.

The post came after Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy”. Trump stated that he thought the image depicted him as a doctor, and had to do with the Red Cross. He also expressed his desire not to engage in debates with the pope.

Pope Leo XIV responded to Trump’s comments during an 11-day visit to four African countries, stating that he will continue to speak out against war and promote peace. Senior Catholic leaders in the US have pushed back against Trump’s remarks on the pope, calling them “disparaging” and criticizing his approach as a politician.

Internationally, Trump’s remarks have drawn condemnation from various figures, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who described his comments as “unacceptable”. Conservative commentators have also criticized the image, with some labeling it as “gross blasphemy”.

The backlash has been widespread, with several conservative figures questioning Trump’s judgment and calling for him to take down the image. The incident has further strained tensions between the White House and the Vatican, which have been building over issues such as immigration policies, military actions, and the US-Israel war on Iran.

Archbishop Paul S Coakley of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops stated that Pope Leo XIV is not Trump’s rival, but rather the Vicar of Christ who speaks from the truth of the Gospel. Archbishop George Leo Thomas of Las Vegas expressed gratitude for Pope Leo XIV’s willingness to speak truth to power.

Source: Al Jazeera