President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of Pope Leo XIV, suggesting that the pontiff's views on Iran and immigration could jeopardize safety. In a recent interview, Trump accused the pope of being lenient towards Iran's nuclear ambitions and misrepresenting his stance on immigration. The pope responded by reaffirming the Catholic Church's opposition to nuclear weapons and emphasizing his focus on peace. This dispute may complicate Secretary of State Marco Rubio's upcoming visit to the Vatican, where he is expected to engage in discussions about U.S.-Vatican relations. Rubio, a practicing Catholic, has been tasked with clarifying Trump's rhetoric on international issues, particularly as midterm elections approach. The tension has also drawn reactions from Italian officials, with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani defending the pope's message of peace. Rubio is scheduled to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Tajani during his visit.