WASHINGTON: Donald Trump has renewed threats to bomb “the entire country” of Iran, justifying the ongoing five-week conflict by claiming God supports US actions, according to The Washington Post.
Speaking at a White House briefing on Monday, Trump said: “I do, because God is good. And God wants to see people taken care of.” He suggested that divine backing underpins US actions, even while expressing dismay at the violence: “God doesn’t like what’s happening. I don’t like what’s happening. Everyone says I enjoy it. I don’t enjoy this.”
Trump also referenced past achievements, saying he had “ended eight wars” through diplomatic efforts including between India and Pakistan and Armenia and Azerbaijan. “That makes me much happier than what we’re doing right now,” he added.
The president, who identifies as a Christian, has increasingly framed the conflict in religious terms and hinted that it reflects a broader struggle between Christianity and Islam. His rhetoric has drawn criticism from religious and political figures. The Imams Council of Michigan condemned his statements, with Imam Steve Elturk calling them “a dangerous escalation that undermines both international stability and the moral fabric of public discourse.”
Trump also posted on Truth Social: “Time is running out — 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!”
Catholic leaders, including Pope Leo, criticised the strikes, saying God “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war,” and urged Trump to end the conflict. Former ally Marjorie Taylor Greene declared Trump “is not a Christian,” adding: “Jesus (PBUH) commanded us to love one another… even our enemies.”
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth used a religious metaphor to describe a rescue mission for a downed airman: “Shot down on a Friday… rescued on Sunday… a pilot reborn.”
Trump’s invocation of faith represents a notable shift in how he justifies the war, blending religious language with military objectives as the US-Israeli conflict continues, leaving thousands dead, wounded many more, and 13 US service members killed.
