Trump’s AI image as Christ sparks controversy after clash with Pope Leo XIV, raising questions about politics, religion and the use of AI.

US President Donald Trump has triggered fresh controversy after posting an AI image of himself in a Christ-like form on Truth Social. The post quickly drew attention for its religious symbolism and the political timing behind it.

Previously, Pope Leo XIV has taken a strong public stance on the ongoing conflict. He recently described Trump’s threat to destroy Iranian civilization as unacceptable. Although he did not directly name the president in that statement, his comments were widely seen as aimed at Trump. The Pope has also previously criticized the Trump administration’s treatment of migrants, calling it “inhuman.”

Following this, Trump posted the AI-generated image portraying himself in a Jesus-like role performing to “heal” the sick. He also expressed his disagreement with the pontiff, saying he was not a fan and claimed that Pope Leo XIV was not doing a very good job.

Trump further stated that the Pope should focus on spiritual responsibilities rather than political commentary. He also suggested that Pope Leo XIV may have been elected partly because he is American, adding that “they thought that would be the best way to deal with President Donald J Trump,” and claiming, “If I wasn’t in the White House, Leo wouldn’t be in the Vatican.”

In response to Trump’s direct criticism, Pope Leo XIV told reporters while traveling to Algiers that he does not see his role as political, but as one focused on spreading peace. He also said he had no intention to debate with Donald Trump following the president’s remarks on his comments regarding the US-Iran conflict.

This is not the first time Trump’s use of AI-generated religious imagery has sparked debate. In May 2025, he shared an image of himself dressed in full papal robes after joking that he would “like to be pope,” a post that also generated widespread discussion online.

The New York State Catholic Conference and Cardinal Timothy Dolan have condemned the images as "disrespectful" and "insensitive”. Some commentators have labeled the imagery blasphemous and narcissistic. The use of AI in such contexts raises questions about how digital tools are being used in political communication. While AI was originally designed to simplify human tasks, its growing use in symbolic and political messaging has added a new layer to public debates.

In an age where political messaging is increasingly shaped by digital tools and symbolic imagery, Business Fortune shows how the lines between faith, power, and technology may blur, causing the audience to wonder about the motivations behind such portrayals.

- Sowmiya Sri Mani