Can Marco Rubio mend ties with Pope Leo after Trump feud over Iran war?

On 8 May 2026, US President Trump said the ceasefire with Iran was still in effect after the US and Iran exchanged fire near the Strait of Hormuz, calling the clash a 'trifle'. He said a deal with Iran 'might not happen, but could happen any day'. Rubio said the US expected Iran's response that day to a proposal for ending the war, and Pakistan said it remained positive as Iran considered the peace offer.

Saudi Arabia called for de-escalation, and the UAE rejected Iran's transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's UN envoy said a permanent end to the war and the lifting of the maritime blockade are the only solution for the strait. Rubio also questioned allies' support on Iran after talks in Italy. Separately, his ties with Pope Leo were in question after Trump's feud with the pope over the Iran war.