Italy US Secretary of State Rubio speaks with Pope about Middle East situation
Following the recent attacks by US President Donald Trump, Pope Leo XIV spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the situation in the Middle East.
07.05.2026, 14:32
07.05.2026, 16:39
SDA
Topics of common interest in the Western Hemisphere were also on the agenda, according to US State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott. The Western Hemisphere usually refers to the twin continent of America.
It had been expected that Rubio would try to calm the waters in the relationship between the US government and the first American pope during the meeting. "The meeting underscored the close relationship between the United States and the Holy See and their shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity," said the US State Department after the meeting. Rubio himself also made corresponding comments on Platform X.
The US Secretary of State also met the Vatican Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin - this meeting also focused on "efforts to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East", according to the US.
Leo has repeatedly spoken out against the war in Iran and called for a ceasefire and dialog. Trump then accused him of having a "terrible" foreign policy. This week, Trump insinuated that the Pope thinks it is okay for Iran to have a nuclear weapon. In doing so, he was endangering "many Catholics and many people". Leo then reiterated his rejection of nuclear weapons. It is the mission of the Church to preach the Gospel and peace, he said.
Rubio points to common ground
Rubio, who is a Catholic himself, had emphasized similarities with the Vatican before the trip, for example on the topic of religious freedom in various parts of the world. In Cuba, the USA had provided humanitarian aid with the support of the Church.
Rubio landed in Rome in the morning. On Friday, he plans to meet with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, among others. Right-wing politician Meloni's relationship with Trump has long been considered good. However, after Trump's earlier attacks against the Pope, there were also clashes between her and the US President.
