Tensions have escalated between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV as criticism mounts over the recent U.S. invasion of Iran and Truth Social posts. Ambassador Francis Rooney, speaking on Wake Up Tri-Counties, voiced concerns about the lack of just cause for military action, highlighting the Catholic doctrine of Just War Theory and the Pope’s calls for peace. Ambassador Rooney said that Pope Leo will not back down from President Trump, nor is he scared of the Trump Administration.
Ambassador Rooney said, “There is a theory developed by St. Thomas Aquinas, like the 10th century or something, called the Just War Theory, that some wars are just. But they have a lot of rules, and this isn’t it. The first major rule is proportionality. You can’t do to someone else something that’s disproportional to what they did to you. And Iran hadn’t done anything to us, and we invaded them. So an invasion never qualifies for that.”
Just War Theory remains a critical framework in analyzing the morality of armed conflict. Rooted in the ideas of Cicero and formalized by thinkers like St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, the doctrine outlines strict criteria for both entering and conducting war. Key principles include just cause, legitimate authority, right intention, and proportionality, with all peaceful options exhausted before resorting to violence. In modern times, the challenges posed by advanced technology and non-state actors complicate adherence to these standards, especially in distinguishing combatants from civilians. Despite these challenges, Just War Theory continues to inform debates about ethical conduct in warfare and post-war reconstruction.
Pope Leo continues to champion unity and compassion, resonating with Catholics worldwide. Meanwhile, Trump’s contentious social media posts targeting Pope Leo have drawn backlash, raising questions about the president’s judgment and the political fallout ahead of the midterms. Catholic and religious leaders urge a return to the core values of justice and peace. President Trump posted an image on his Truth Social account that appeared to some as depicting himself as Jesus, an image that Ambassador Rooney describes as “disgusting.” The image received backlash from both sides of the aisle and was removed from President Trump’s Truth Social feed. President Trump later said he thought he was depicting a doctor.
Former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, Frances Rooney, shared personal memories of Pope Leo XIV—America’s first pope—during a recent Wake Up Tri-Counties interview. Ambassador Rooney detailed his initial encounters when the pontiff was simply known as “Father Bob,” frequenting board meetings in Tulsa and later overseeing the Augustinian Order in Rome. Their friendship continues decades later. He praised Pope Leo’s poised approach and his dedication to tackling global issues, particularly immigration. Rooney also reflected on his own service in Congress and his environmental work in the Everglades. His book, “The Global Vatican,” explores the Vatican’s diplomatic reach and enduring global significance.
Francis Rooney has maintained a longstanding connection with the Augustinians, beginning with his family’s ties to Cascia Hall Preparatory School, where his three children studied. Rooney went on to serve as Chairman of the Board at Cascia Hall, further strengthening his involvement with the order. His relationship extended to Rome, where he worked closely with Father Robert Prevost, the former prior general of the Augustinians, and now Pope Leo XIV.
History has been made at the Vatican as Chicago native Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been chosen as the 267th pope in May 2025, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. Prevost, raised in Dolton, Illinois, and a product of Chicago’s south suburbs, is the first American to ascend to the papacy. His background includes missionary work spanning two decades in Peru and leadership as bishop of Chiclayo before a prominent Vatican role overseeing bishops worldwide. Prevost’s journey began in the south suburbs of Chicago, where he served as an altar boy and received his education at local Catholic schools before joining the Augustinian order. Known for his missionary work in Peru and his leadership as prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV brings decades of pastoral and international experience to the role. His parents, Louis and Mildred, were dedicated Catholic educators in Chicago.
As reported by Today by NBC’s Anne Thompson, Pope Leo XIV is dialing down tensions with President Donald Trump, seeking to move past their public feud as he continues his first major international tour. The pope clarified that many of his recent statements were not aimed at the American leader, addressing speculation fueled by pointed remarks during public appearances. Observers say the Vatican is eager to refocus attention on the trip’s broader goals, including interfaith dialogue and humanitarian outreach. Vatican officials also emphasize a desire for productive relations with the United States, despite past disagreements. Both sides appear to be signaling a willingness to reset, with diplomacy taking center stage. You can find this article on www.today.com
As reported on Today by NBC’s Raf Sanchez at www.today.com