Trump Orders “Shoot to Kill” in Hormuz; Pope: ‘Not in Favour of War’

Pope Leo XIV has doubled down on his warning that the escalating US-Iran conflict is driving global instability and civilian suffering.

“As a pastor I cannot be in favour of war,” he said. “I would like to encourage all to make efforts to look for answers that come from a culture of peace and not from a place of hate and division.”

The pontiff added that the conflict is creating a “chaotic situation for the global economy” and deepening the suffering of ordinary people. He also condemned Iran’s killing of protesters, stressing that “human life is to be respected.”

His remarks come a week after US President Donald Trump attacked the pontiff for his stance on the volatile Middle East conflict, which has now become a military flashpoint once more.

Meanwhile, Trump has ordered the Navy to “shoot and kill” Iranian boats laying mines in the waterway. His directive added to maritime tensions already rattling energy markets and raising fears of a wider regional conflict. Oil prices have climbed again as traders react to the threat of disruption.

According to CNN, Trump said there is no deadline for ending hostilities or receiving a peace proposal, while dismissing Iran’s leadership as divided. “Iran is having a very hard time figuring out who their leader is!” he said.

However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected that claim, insisting on “iron unity” under the Supreme Leader.

At sea, the US Navy continues intensified operations. Washington now has 19 warships deployed in the Middle East region, including two aircraft carriers, and additional assets in the Indian Ocean.