Former President Donald Trump stirred controversy after sharing artificial intelligence generated images portraying himself in religious scenes, including one resembling Jesus Christ healing a patient. Facing backlash from critics and some supporters, Trump removed the image but later posted another depicting Jesus embracing him, dismissing objections as attacks from political opponents. He insisted the imagery symbolized his role in helping people rather than any claim of divinity.

The dispute escalated into a public clash with Pope Leo, the first United States born pontiff, after the pope criticized the war involving Iran and condemned what he described as the idolatry of power and self. Trump fired back on social media, accusing the pope of weakness on crime and foreign policy. The pope responded by warning against the manipulation of religion for political and military purposes.

Amid the war of words, reports suggested Trump may be seeking a path to de escalation in the Iran conflict, while also focusing on preparations for an upcoming state visit by King Charles the Third. At home, Trump drew skepticism from medical professionals after promoting diet soda as a cancer preventative, a claim dismissed by doctors.

Concerns about Trump's rhetoric and conduct have prompted some lawmakers to introduce legislation aimed at evaluating his fitness for office under the Twenty Fifth Amendment, though the effort faces slim prospects. Reports have also highlighted his extensive use of presidential pardons and remarks suggesting he may grant additional clemency before leaving office.