Washington: US President Donald Trump has removed a controversial image he shared on social media after it triggered strong reactions from religious groups and political leaders across the world.
The image, created using artificial intelligence, showed Trump in a scene that many viewers said resembled Jesus Christ performing a healing. The picture included glowing light and symbolic elements that closely matched traditional depictions of Jesus, leading to widespread criticism.
Soon after the post appeared online, it drew backlash from Christians, including both evangelical and Catholic communities. Many said the image was disrespectful and crossed a line by using sacred religious imagery in a political context. Some of Trump’s own supporters also voiced concern, saying the portrayal was inappropriate.
The reaction quickly spread beyond the United States, with criticism coming from different parts of the world. Religious commentators and public figures warned that such use of faith symbols could offend believers and deepen divisions.
In response, Trump defended the post, saying it was not meant to portray Jesus. He said the image was intended to show him as a healer or someone helping others, and that critics had misunderstood the message. He also dismissed the backlash as exaggerated.
However, the image was deleted roughly twelve hours after it was posted. Trump later said he removed it because it had caused confusion, though reports suggest the growing criticism played a major role in the decision.
The controversy comes at a time of rising tension between Trump and Pope Leo XIV. The Pope has recently spoken strongly about peace and warned against war, while Trump has taken a different tone on global conflicts. The incident has added to the ongoing strain in relations between the US administration and the Vatican.
The episode has also raised wider questions about the use of artificial intelligence in political messaging, especially when it involves sensitive religious themes.
For many observers, the incident highlights the need for greater care when combining technology, politics and faith in public communication.