U.S. President Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image that appears to liken himself to Jesus, sparking controversy.

On the 12th (local time), Trump uploaded to Truth Social, without any explanation, an AI image showing him in white clothing draped with a red cloth, placing his hand on the head of a person lying in a hospital bed. Behind his head, a halo shines, the Stars and Stripes and an eagle symbolizing the United States are depicted, and light leaks from both hands.

The Associated Press assessed that “President Trump posted a photo depicting himself as possessing powers similar to those of Jesus.” Christian groups criticized, saying, “Using sacred religious imagery for personal branding and political messaging is inappropriate and disrespectful.” Trump had previously posted on social media an AI-generated image of himself dressed in papal attire.

Some interpret the post as aimed at Pope Leo XIV, who criticized him. Trump posted a lengthy message attacking the Pope and uploaded the image about an hour later.

In the message, Trump said, “I do not want a pope who thinks it is acceptable for Iran to possess nuclear weapons,” and criticized, “(the Pope is) weak on crime and terrible on foreign policy.” He added, “I also do not want a pope who criticizes the President of the United States,” saying, “because I am doing exactly the job I was entrusted with by winning in a landslide, such as reducing crime rates to an all-time low and creating the greatest stock market in history.”

Calling the selection of Pope Leo XIV a shocking appointment, Trump claimed, “he was not even on the list of papal candidates, and that they seated him there solely because he is American, believing it the best way to deal with President Trump.” He added, “Leo should be grateful,” saying, “If I were not in the White House, Leo would not be in the Vatican.”

Trump reacted this way after the Pope issued successive ‘war criticism’ messages. At a special prayer service the previous day, the Pope said, “Now is the time for peace,” and urged, “Sit at tables of dialogue and mediation, rather than tables planning rearmament.” He continued, “Enough idol worship of self and money! Enough displays of power! Enough of war!”