Thursday, April 16, 2026

EURONEWS Orbán's defeat and US shift raise hopes to unblock EU sanctions on Russia - By Jorge Liboreiro Published on 16/04/2026 - 15:19 GMT+2

EURONEWS

Orbán's defeat and US shift raise hopes to unblock EU sanctions on Russia

Published on 16/04/2026 - 15:19 GMT+2

After Viktor Orbán's defeat at the polls and Washington's decision to phase out waivers for Russian oil, hopes are rising in Brussels that a package of sanctions against Moscow will finally be unlocked.

For more than two months, a new round of European Union sanctions against Russia has remained stalled on the political table.

First vetoed by Hungary and Slovakia over an unrelated dispute with Ukraine involving the Druzhba pipeline, and later challenged by the energy turmoil unleashed by the US war on Iran, the proposed sanctions, which include a full ban on maritime services for Russian oil tankers, are still waiting for a resolution.

But recent developments in Budapest and Washington have suddenly improved the odds, raising hopes in Brussels that the 20th package could soon be unblocked.

The crushing defeat of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán last Sunday is set to transform the power balance, opening a window of opportunity to remove the outstanding vetoes on the sanctions and the €90 billion loan for Ukraine.

While few officials and diplomats expect Orbán, a notorious disrupter, to break the deadlock before he leaves office in May, expectations are sky high for his successor, Péter Magyar, who has promised to be a "constructive" voice at the table.

There is still a question mark on how the Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico, a close ideological ally of Orbán's, might behave after the change of guard. Unlike Orbán, who has repeatedly tested the limits of EU norms, Fico prefers to engage in dialogue with his fellow leaders to find a possible compromise to lift his vetoes.

According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Druzhba pipeline will be repaired "not completely, but enough to function" by the end of the month. The infrastructure was badly damaged in late January by Russian drones.

The defeat of Orbán and the repair of Druzhba could play together to ease Fico's opposition. The Slovak previously said he had no issue with the substance of the sanctions themselves – only with the interruption of oil flows through Druzhba.

Fico's office did not reply to an Euronews request for comment.

Russia's 'ironic' windfall

Meanwhile, in Washington, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the administration would not provide further sanctions relief to Russia, a measure introduced last month to cope with the shockwaves sent by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The 30-day permit, which expired over the weekend, allowed other countries to purchase Russian oil that was already at sea.

"We will not be renewing the general license on Russian oil, and we will not be renewing the general license on Iranian oil," Bessent said on Wednesday at the White House.

The American decision to provide sanctions relief to Russia had outraged Europeans, who saw it as an "unilateral", "wrong" and "self-defeating" move at a critical moment when Moscow was earning windfalls.

The price of Russian Urals crude has been hovering over $110 per barrel, the highest level in more than a decade. As a result, Russia's revenue from crude and refined products rose sharply to $19 billion (€16 billion) in March compared to $9.7 billion (€8.2 billion) in February, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

The injection has helped the Kremlin cushion a trend of economic stagnation that left a deficit of $60 billion (€50.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2026, far beyond projections.

"We believe that, in general, giving any relief in terms of sanctions, at this point in time, vis-à-vis Russia is not helpful in maintaining the pressure on Russia," Paula Pinho, the European Commission's chief spokesperson, said on Thursday.

"It should be ironic that Russia is actually benefiting from this war in the Middle East, but ironic as it is, it is the reality."

Pinho expressed hope that the sanctions would soon be approved, citing the latest deadly attacks by Russia against Ukrainian cities as another reason to pile pressure.

However, even if the veto is lifted and the package is endorsed, its centrepiece is in doubt. When EU ambassadors negotiatedthe sanctions, they decided that the full ban on maritime services should be introduced in coordination with G7 allies.

The full ban is meant to replace the G7 price cap, which Brussels considers to be outdated after years of Moscow blatantly bypassing it with its "shadow fleet".

Asked if the bloc should wait for an agreement at the G7 level, which for now is entirely hypothetical, Pinho left the door open to go it alone.

"If we put forward a package of sanctions, if we also have the support at the international level by the G7, the better and greater the impact will be. So we always try to align our efforts with the G7," the spokesperson said.

"On this one, we continue discussions in this sense. This would be the ideal outcome. If it is not possible, we'll see how to proceed."

CNN World Live Updates - Updated 11:02 AM EDT, Thu April 16, 2026 - Hegseth warns Iranian regime to 'choose wisely'- US warns Iran to make a deal or else fighting will resume The blockade of Iranian ports will continue, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said, adding that the US will attack infrastructure and energy if Tehran "chooses poorly." Updated 11:02 AM EDT, Thu April 16, 2026 Hegseth warns Iranian regime to 'choose wisely' 00:58 Here's the latest • Diplomatic push: Iranian officials and Pakistan’s military chief will meet in Tehran today to discuss messages exchanged between Iran and the US. The White House has expressed optimism about reaching a deal, noting that a potential second round of talks would likely be held in Pakistan. • Latest from the Pentagon: US military officials said troops in the Middle East are “rearming” and stand ready to resume combat if negotiations fail. • Naval blockade: The Joint Chiefs chairman warned that the US could use force against ships trying to bypass the blockade against Iranian ports, adding that the military will pursue vessels from any country providing “material support” to Iran. • Israel-Lebanon developments: Lebanon’s president held a phone call with US President Donald Trump today, after the Lebanese leader earlier declined to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Lebanese officials. On the ground, Israel has destroyed a bridge in southern Lebanon, the last link for thousands of people to the rest of the country. All catch up 33 Posts 12 min ago Lebanese president has call with Trump, after earlier declining to speak with Netanyahu Tamara Qiblawi By Tamara Qiblawi and Issy Ronald Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun held a phone call with US President Donald Trump this afternoon, according to the Lebanese presidency. Their call came after Aoun declined to speak with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a Lebanese official told CNN, contradicting earlier claims by Israeli officials and Trump that the two leaders would hold historic talks. CNN has contacted the White House for comment. 14 min ago Israel strikes ambulance crews multiple times, Lebanese authorities say, killing 4 medics Sana Noor Haq By Charbel Mallo, Ibrahim Dahman and Sana Noor Haq Mourners, including colleagues of paramedic Mahdi Abu Zaid, who was killed in an Israeli strike, carry his body during his funeral in Nabatieh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Mourners, including colleagues of paramedic Mahdi Abu Zaid, who was killed in an Israeli strike, carry his body during his funeral in Nabatieh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Reuters The Israeli military launched three successive attacks on emergency crews handling a relief mission in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities, killing four paramedics and wounding several others. CNN has reached out to the Israeli military for comment. Israel struck rescue teams “three consecutive times” in the town of Mayfadoun, southern Lebanon, on Wednesday, the Lebanese Public Ministry of Health said. At least three paramedics were killed and six others injured, the health ministry added. That death toll rose to at least four paramedics killed, Lebanon’s National News Agency reported on Thursday. The crew were “on a relief mission following a raid that targeted the town,” NNA said. “While they were in the area, they were targeted by a drone strike, which led to the martyrdom of the four paramedics,” the news agency added. One of the slain paramedics — Mahdi Abu Zaid — was injured in an initial Israeli strike before he returned to try and rescue others and was killed, according to a senior colleague. “Despite his injury, he (Mahdi Abu Zaid) went and moved the car back, and he refused to leave any martyr or wounded person on the ground,” Mohamed Suleiman, a chief paramedic in Nabatieh, told Reuters. “What Mahdi did embodies the kind of heroism offered by Nabatieh paramedics,” Suleiman added. The UN’s human rights office (OHCHR) condemned the attack. Death toll: Israeli bombing on Lebanon after the Iran-backed group Hezbollah fired projectiles into Israel on March 2 has flattened neigborhoods and displaced 1.2 million people. Israeli strikes have killed at least 2,196 people in Lebanon, including 172 children and 93 health workers, the Lebanese health ministry reported on Wednesday. In the last 24 hours alone, at least 29 people were killed in Lebanon, the ministry said. CNN’s Dana Karni and Tamara Qiblawi contributed reporting. 47 min ago Israel destroys last bridge over Litani River, completely isolating communities in the south Sana Noor Haq By Charbel Mallo and Sana Noor Haq The last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country was severed by an Israeli strike in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday. The last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country was severed by an Israeli strike in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Louisa Gouliamaki/Reuters The Israeli military demolished the final crossing over the Litani River, which bisects Lebanon, on Thursday, according to Lebanese state media, cutting off tens of thousands of residents in the south from crucial aid links. Israeli forces launched “two consecutive airstrikes” on the Qasmiyeh Bridge connecting the coastal city of Sidon to the southern city of Tyre, “completely destroying it,” the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) reported. “Prior to these airstrikes, a drone had also carried out two separate attacks near the same bridge,” NNA said. At least one person was killed and two others injured by the attack, according to the Lebanese army. Smoke and explosions in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon 01:09 A series of huge explosions lined the horizon near the bridge on Thursday, in footage from the aftermath, as huge clouds of smoke tumbled through green pastures. The Israeli military claimed to CNN that forces “did not target” the bridge, but added that they did attack “in its vicinity.” Israel has intensified deadly strikes in southern Lebanon recent days – even as regional officials push for a direct call between Israeli and Lebanese leaders to end the violence. Just on Wednesday, the Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir told troops to turn neighborhoods south of the Litani River into a “no-go zone for Hezbollah operatives.” Human rights advocates have repeatedly warned that Israeli attacks on vital infrastructure for civilians trying to access medical care, food and relief in Lebanon may amount to war crimes. Between March 12 and April 8, Israeli forces “systematically destroyed or severely damaged all main bridges” connecting areas south of the Litani River to the rest of Lebanon, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW), making the Qasmiyeh Bridge the “sole main remaining operational crossing” as of April 10. “These strikes had significantly limited the ability of civilians to move safely and of state institutions, humanitarian organizations, hospitals, and healthcare facilities to deliver aid and provide medical care,” HRW added. CNN’s Eugenia Yosef contributed reporting. This post has been updated to reflect the death toll from the Israeli attack on the Qasmiyeh Bridge. 54 min ago US rearming and prepared to blockade Iran "as long as it takes," warn top military leaders Kit Maher Aileen Graef Kaanita Iyer By Kit Maher, Lauren Chadwick, Aileen Graef and Kaanita Iyer In the Pentagon briefing that wrapped up a short while ago, top US military leadership warned Iranian leaders the blockade of the country’s ports and economic pressures would continue unless they “choose wisely” and that US troops in the Middle East are “rearming” during the ceasefire. Here’s a look at what we learned from the briefing: Troops rearming: The US are using this pause in fighting to rearm, retool and adjust their “tactics, techniques and procedures,” said US Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper, who oversees US forces in the region. “Choose wisely:” US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US would impose a blockade on Iranian ports for “as long as it takes” and called on Iran to “choose wisely.” He threatened to target infrastructure and energy sites “if Iran chooses poorly.” Underneath Iran: Hegseth added that Iran is “digging out” missiles and launchers from bombed facilities, arguing that it can’t “replenish” its military capabilities. CNN has previously reported on satellite images showing earth-moving equipment digging for missile launchers trapped underground. Blockade enforcement: Joint Chiefs chairman Dan Caine warned that the US could board or use force against ships not complying with the blockade. He said 13 ships have turned around so far but, as of this morning, the US has not had to board “any particular ships.” Third parties: Hegseth also responded to reporting that China is planning to send weapons to Iran, saying the US has been assured that won’t happen. Separately, Caine said the US military will pursue vessels from any country that may be providing “material support” to Iran in other regions. 1 hr 19 min ago Iran’s nuclear program presents a tough obstacle for mediator Pakistan Nic Robertson By Nic Robertson in Islamabad Key mediator Pakistan is intensifying its diplomatic efforts towards resolving the Iran conflict, with the country’s powerful army chief in Tehran and PM Shehbaz Sharif in Qatar. But what are they hoping to achieve? A central aim is securing a new round of talks, sources close to the negotiations said, after the last round ended last weekend in Islamabad without any agreement. From the Pakistani side, at least, that goal appears on track. But major obstacles remain, principally Iran’s nuclear program. The US and Iran have long been at odds on this, with Tehran insisting on its right to peaceful enrichment. Mediators must try to bridge this gap and resolve thorny questions – should Iran soften its stance – like what should happen to Iran’s nuclear facilities and what, if anything, gets removed. Talks will succeed or fail on those handful of details, a source said. Iran will likely be looking to lock in a permanent lifting of sanctions and seeking to save face, which could translate as wanting no more triumphant social media posts from Donald Trump proclaiming Tehran’s surrender. But getting Iran to foreswear nuclear weapons in such a way that satisfies the Americans is a huge ask for the Pakistani team. 33 min ago The latest on the flurry of diplomacy over Iran and Israel's strikes in Lebanon By Issy Ronald Members of the Lebanese army work at the site after an Israeli strike severed the last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Members of the Lebanese army work at the site after an Israeli strike severed the last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Louisa Gouliamaki/Reuters The Israeli military destroyed a key bridge in Lebanon today, according to Lebanese state media, and diplomatic efforts seeking to implement a ceasefire there hit a stumbling block. Meanwhile, a push to bring Iran and the US back to the negotiating table inches forward. Here’s what to know: Litani River: The Israeli military destroyed the last remaining bridge over the Litani River, which bisects Lebanon, according to Lebanese state media, completely isolating tens of thousands of residents in the south of the country. The Israeli military claimed to CNN that forces “did not target” the bridge, but added they did attack “in its vicinity.” Diplomatic efforts: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declined to speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a Lebanese official told CNN, after an Israeli official and President Donald Trump said the two leaders were set to hold historic talks. Officials in Lebanon have told Israel and the US they would not seek further negotiations until a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah is reached. Iran’s alliance: As the fighting continues in Lebanon, Iran’s parliament speaker said a ceasefire in Lebanon is as important to Tehran as a truce in their own country. “We have never forgotten our Lebanese brothers and consider them part of ourselves,” he said, according to state-affiliated media. Pakistan’s mediation: Pakistani officials have sustained “open channels of communication” between the US and Iran, a spokesperson for the country’s foreign ministry said. Pakistan is pushing for a second round of talks between Tehran and Washington to extend the two-week ceasefire deal. Iranian officials will meet with Pakistan’s military chief as part of a push to resume talks with the US. Markets hopeful: Stock markets are buoyant today as traders bet on signs the US-Iran talks are gaining momentum, outweighing, for them, Iranian threats to disrupt shipping in the Red Sea. Oil prices are rising, but remain well below $100 a barrel. Flight disruption: Europe faces a raft of flight cancellations if oil supplies remain trapped in the Middle East, International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol warned today. The continent has “maybe six weeks or so (of) jet fuel left,” he said. Meanwhile, several state-owned Chinese airlines have started quietly canceling international flights as global fuel prices surge. CNN’s Sylvie Zhuang, Lex Harvey, Tamara Qiblawi, Eugenia Yosef, Charbel Mallo, Sana Noor Haq, Tal Shalev, Sophia Saifi, Hanna Ziady and Olesya Dmitracova contributed reporting. 1 hr 38 min ago US military will pursue vessels providing "material support" to Iran in other global regions By Lauren Chadwick Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine told reporters at a press conference this morning that the US military will pursue vessels from any country that may be providing “material support” to Iran in other regions. “In addition to this blockade, the joint force, through operations and activities in other areas of responsibility, like the Pacific Area of Responsibility … will actively pursue any Iranian flagged vessel or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran,” Caine told reporters. “This includes dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil. As most of you know, dark fleet vessels are those illicit or illegal ships evading international regulations, sanctions or insurance requirements,” he said. Caine added that 10,000 sailors, more than a dozen ships and dozens of aircraft are involved in the mission. 1 hr 48 min ago Official says travelers in Europe may soon face flight cancellations due to lack of fuel Olesya Dmitracova By Olesya Dmitracova A track carrying aviation fuel is seen on the tarmac at an airport in Venice, Italy, on April 8. A track carrying aviation fuel is seen on the tarmac at an airport in Venice, Italy, on April 8. Davide Bonaldo / SOPA Images/Sipa USA If oil supplies remain trapped because of the war with Iran, some upcoming flights in Europe may be canceled, the head of the International Energy Agency told the Associated Press today. Europe has “maybe six weeks or so (of) jet fuel left,” Fatih Birol said, echoing his warning on an April 1 podcast that jet fuel and diesel shortages were likely in Europe this month or by early May. Speaking today, he said that for Europe, if the Strait of Hormuz isn’t reopened, “soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be canceled as a result of lack of jet fuel.” Birol’s forecast of a looming jet fuel shortage is slightly more upbeat than another recent warning: On April 9, ACI Europe, which represents European airports, said Europe was only three weeks away from such a shortage. Airlines have already been dropping some less profitable flights as jet fuel prices have soared since the start of the war. 1 hr 52 min ago US warns ships trying to bypass blockade that it could use force if they do not comply Kit Maher By Kit Maher Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine speaks during a briefing on the Iran war at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, on Thursday. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine speaks during a briefing on the Iran war at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, on Thursday. Nathan Howard/Reuters Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine said Thursday that the United States has threatened to board or use force against ships that do not comply with the blockade of vessels coming to or from Iranian ports. When the blockade started, Caine said “seven ships of interest” were a “concern” for US Central Command as he described the warning issued to vessels attempting to cross the blockade. “A junior officer picks up that mic and transmits, and I quote, ‘Do not attempt to breach the blockade. Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and seizure, transiting to or from Iranian ports. Turn around or prepare to be boarded. If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force,’” Caine said. He explained that the blockade is impacting “all ships, regardless of nationality” and that enforcement will occur “inside Iran’s territorial seas and in international waters.” So far, Caine said “13 ships have made the wise choice of turning around” and while the US is prepared to board ships or bring force, “As of this morning, US Central Command has not been required to board any particular ships.” 2 hr 5 min ago Hegseth says Iran is digging for "remaining launchers and missiles" Kaanita Iyer By Kaanita Iyer US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said during a news briefing Thursday that Iran is “digging out” missiles and launchers from bombed facilities, arguing that the country is unable to “replenish” its military capabilities. Addressing Iranian leaders, Hegseth said, “While you are digging out, which is exactly what you’re doing, digging out of bombed out and devastated facilities, we are only getting stronger. You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them. You have no defense industry. No ability to replenish your offensive or defensive capabilities. CNN has reported that satellite images have shown earth-moving equipment digging for missile launchers trapped underground amid the ceasefire.

CNN World

Live Updates

US warns Iran to make a deal or else fighting will resume

The blockade of Iranian ports will continue, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said, adding that the US will attack infrastructure and energy if Tehran "chooses poorly."

Updated 11:02 AM EDT, Thu April 16, 2026

Hegseth warns Iranian regime to 'choose wisely'

00:58

Here's the latest

• Diplomatic push: Iranian officials and Pakistan’s military chief will meet in Tehran today to discuss messages exchanged between Iran and the US. The White House has expressed optimism about reaching a deal, noting that a potential second round of talks would likely be held in Pakistan.

• Latest from the Pentagon: US military officials said troops in the Middle East are “rearming” and stand ready to resume combat if negotiations fail.

• Naval blockade: The Joint Chiefs chairman warned that the US could use force against ships trying to bypass the blockade against Iranian ports, adding that the military will pursue vessels from any country providing “material support” to Iran.

• Israel-Lebanon developments: Lebanon’s president held a phone call with US President Donald Trump today, after the Lebanese leader earlier declined to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Lebanese officials. On the ground, Israel has destroyed a bridge in southern Lebanon, the last link for thousands of people to the rest of the country.

All

catch up

33 Posts

12 min ago

Lebanese president has call with Trump, after earlier declining to speak with Netanyahu

Tamara Qiblawi

By Tamara Qiblawi and Issy Ronald

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun held a phone call with US President Donald Trump this afternoon, according to the Lebanese presidency.

Their call came after Aoun declined to speak with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a Lebanese official told CNN, contradicting earlier claims by Israeli officials and Trump that the two leaders would hold historic talks.

CNN has contacted the White House for comment.

14 min ago

Israel strikes ambulance crews multiple times, Lebanese authorities say, killing 4 medics

Sana Noor Haq

By Charbel Mallo, Ibrahim Dahman and Sana Noor Haq

Mourners, including colleagues of paramedic Mahdi Abu Zaid, who was killed in an Israeli strike, carry his body during his funeral in Nabatieh, Lebanon, on Thursday.

Mourners, including colleagues of paramedic Mahdi Abu Zaid, who was killed in an Israeli strike, carry his body during his funeral in Nabatieh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Reuters

The Israeli military launched three successive attacks on emergency crews handling a relief mission in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities, killing four paramedics and wounding several others.

CNN has reached out to the Israeli military for comment.

Israel struck rescue teams “three consecutive times” in the town of Mayfadoun, southern Lebanon, on Wednesday, the Lebanese Public Ministry of Health said. At least three paramedics were killed and six others injured, the health ministry added.

That death toll rose to at least four paramedics killed, Lebanon’s National News Agency reported on Thursday. The crew were “on a relief mission following a raid that targeted the town,” NNA said.

“While they were in the area, they were targeted by a drone strike, which led to the martyrdom of the four paramedics,” the news agency added.

One of the slain paramedics — Mahdi Abu Zaid — was injured in an initial Israeli strike before he returned to try and rescue others and was killed, according to a senior colleague.

“Despite his injury, he (Mahdi Abu Zaid) went and moved the car back, and he refused to leave any martyr or wounded person on the ground,” Mohamed Suleiman, a chief paramedic in Nabatieh, told Reuters.

“What Mahdi did embodies the kind of heroism offered by Nabatieh paramedics,” Suleiman added.

The UN’s human rights office (OHCHR) condemned the attack.

Death toll: Israeli bombing on Lebanon after the Iran-backed group Hezbollah fired projectiles into Israel on March 2 has flattened neigborhoods and displaced 1.2 million people. Israeli strikes have killed at least 2,196 people in Lebanon, including 172 children and 93 health workers, the Lebanese health ministry reported on Wednesday. In the last 24 hours alone, at least 29 people were killed in Lebanon, the ministry said.

CNN’s Dana Karni and Tamara Qiblawi contributed reporting.

47 min ago

Israel destroys last bridge over Litani River, completely isolating communities in the south

Sana Noor Haq

By Charbel Mallo and Sana Noor Haq

The last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country was severed by an Israeli strike in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday.

The last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country was severed by an Israeli strike in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Louisa Gouliamaki/Reuters

The Israeli military demolished the final crossing over the Litani River, which bisects Lebanon, on Thursday, according to Lebanese state media, cutting off tens of thousands of residents in the south from crucial aid links.

Israeli forces launched “two consecutive airstrikes” on the Qasmiyeh Bridge connecting the coastal city of Sidon to the southern city of Tyre, “completely destroying it,” the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) reported.

“Prior to these airstrikes, a drone had also carried out two separate attacks near the same bridge,” NNA said.

At least one person was killed and two others injured by the attack, according to the Lebanese army.

Smoke and explosions in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon

01:09

A series of huge explosions lined the horizon near the bridge on Thursday, in footage from the aftermath, as huge clouds of smoke tumbled through green pastures.

The Israeli military claimed to CNN that forces “did not target” the bridge, but added that they did attack “in its vicinity.”

Israel has intensified deadly strikes in southern Lebanon recent days – even as regional officials push for a direct call between Israeli and Lebanese leaders to end the violence. Just on Wednesday, the Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir told troops to turn neighborhoods south of the Litani River into a “no-go zone for Hezbollah operatives.” Human rights advocates have repeatedly warned that Israeli attacks on vital infrastructure for civilians trying to access medical care, food and relief in Lebanon may amount to war crimes.

Between March 12 and April 8, Israeli forces “systematically destroyed or severely damaged all main bridges” connecting areas south of the Litani River to the rest of Lebanon, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW), making the Qasmiyeh Bridge the “sole main remaining operational crossing” as of April 10.

“These strikes had significantly limited the ability of civilians to move safely and of state institutions, humanitarian organizations, hospitals, and healthcare facilities to deliver aid and provide medical care,” HRW added.

CNN’s Eugenia Yosef contributed reporting.

This post has been updated to reflect the death toll from the Israeli attack on the Qasmiyeh Bridge.

54 min ago

US rearming and prepared to blockade Iran "as long as it takes," warn top military leaders

Kit Maher

Aileen Graef

Kaanita Iyer

By Kit Maher, Lauren Chadwick, Aileen Graef and Kaanita Iyer

In the Pentagon briefing that wrapped up a short while ago, top US military leadership warned Iranian leaders the blockade of the country’s ports and economic pressures would continue unless they “choose wisely” and that US troops in the Middle East are “rearming” during the ceasefire.

Here’s a look at what we learned from the briefing:

Troops rearming: The US are using this pause in fighting to rearm, retool and adjust their “tactics, techniques and procedures,” said US Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper, who oversees US forces in the region.

“Choose wisely:” US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US would impose a blockade on Iranian ports for “as long as it takes” and called on Iran to “choose wisely.” He threatened to target infrastructure and energy sites “if Iran chooses poorly.”

Underneath Iran: Hegseth added that Iran is “digging out” missiles and launchers from bombed facilities, arguing that it can’t “replenish” its military capabilities. CNN has previously reported on satellite images showing earth-moving equipment digging for missile launchers trapped underground.

Blockade enforcement: Joint Chiefs chairman Dan Caine warned that the US could board or use force against ships not complying with the blockade. He said 13 ships have turned around so far but, as of this morning, the US has not had to board “any particular ships.”

Third parties: Hegseth also responded to reporting that China is planning to send weapons to Iran, saying the US has been assured that won’t happen. Separately, Caine said the US military will pursue vessels from any country that may be providing “material support” to Iran in other regions.

1 hr 19 min ago

Iran’s nuclear program presents a tough obstacle for mediator Pakistan

Nic Robertson

By Nic Robertson in Islamabad

Key mediator Pakistan is intensifying its diplomatic efforts towards resolving the Iran conflict, with the country’s powerful army chief in Tehran and PM Shehbaz Sharif in Qatar. But what are they hoping to achieve?

A central aim is securing a new round of talks, sources close to the negotiations said, after the last round ended last weekend in Islamabad without any agreement. From the Pakistani side, at least, that goal appears on track.

But major obstacles remain, principally Iran’s nuclear program.

The US and Iran have long been at odds on this, with Tehran insisting on its right to peaceful enrichment.

Mediators must try to bridge this gap and resolve thorny questions – should Iran soften its stance – like what should happen to Iran’s nuclear facilities and what, if anything, gets removed.

Talks will succeed or fail on those handful of details, a source said.

Iran will likely be looking to lock in a permanent lifting of sanctions and seeking to save face, which could translate as wanting no more triumphant social media posts from Donald Trump proclaiming Tehran’s surrender.

But getting Iran to foreswear nuclear weapons in such a way that satisfies the Americans is a huge ask for the Pakistani team.

33 min ago

The latest on the flurry of diplomacy over Iran and Israel's strikes in Lebanon

By Issy Ronald

Members of the Lebanese army work at the site after an Israeli strike severed the last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday.

Members of the Lebanese army work at the site after an Israeli strike severed the last remaining bridge linking southern Lebanon to the rest of the country in Qasmiyeh, Lebanon, on Thursday. Louisa Gouliamaki/Reuters

The Israeli military destroyed a key bridge in Lebanon today, according to Lebanese state media, and diplomatic efforts seeking to implement a ceasefire there hit a stumbling block. Meanwhile, a push to bring Iran and the US back to the negotiating table inches forward.

Here’s what to know:

Litani River: The Israeli military destroyed the last remaining bridge over the Litani River, which bisects Lebanon, according to Lebanese state media, completely isolating tens of thousands of residents in the south of the country. The Israeli military claimed to CNN that forces “did not target” the bridge, but added they did attack “in its vicinity.”

Diplomatic efforts: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declined to speak to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a Lebanese official told CNN, after an Israeli official and President Donald Trump said the two leaders were set to hold historic talks. Officials in Lebanon have told Israel and the US they would not seek further negotiations until a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah is reached.

Iran’s alliance: As the fighting continues in Lebanon, Iran’s parliament speaker said a ceasefire in Lebanon is as important to Tehran as a truce in their own country. “We have never forgotten our Lebanese brothers and consider them part of ourselves,” he said, according to state-affiliated media.

Pakistan’s mediation: Pakistani officials have sustained “open channels of communication” between the US and Iran, a spokesperson for the country’s foreign ministry said. Pakistan is pushing for a second round of talks between Tehran and Washington to extend the two-week ceasefire deal. Iranian officials will meet with Pakistan’s military chief as part of a push to resume talks with the US.

Markets hopeful: Stock markets are buoyant today as traders bet on signs the US-Iran talks are gaining momentum, outweighing, for them, Iranian threats to disrupt shipping in the Red Sea. Oil prices are rising, but remain well below $100 a barrel.

Flight disruption: Europe faces a raft of flight cancellations if oil supplies remain trapped in the Middle East, International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol warned today. The continent has “maybe six weeks or so (of) jet fuel left,” he said. Meanwhile, several state-owned Chinese airlines have started quietly canceling international flights as global fuel prices surge.

CNN’s Sylvie Zhuang, Lex Harvey, Tamara Qiblawi, Eugenia Yosef, Charbel Mallo, Sana Noor Haq, Tal Shalev, Sophia Saifi, Hanna Ziady and Olesya Dmitracova contributed reporting.

1 hr 38 min ago

US military will pursue vessels providing "material support" to Iran in other global regions

By Lauren Chadwick

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine told reporters at a press conference this morning that the US military will pursue vessels from any country that may be providing “material support” to Iran in other regions.

“In addition to this blockade, the joint force, through operations and activities in other areas of responsibility, like the Pacific Area of Responsibility … will actively pursue any Iranian flagged vessel or any vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran,” Caine told reporters.

“This includes dark fleet vessels carrying Iranian oil. As most of you know, dark fleet vessels are those illicit or illegal ships evading international regulations, sanctions or insurance requirements,” he said.

Caine added that 10,000 sailors, more than a dozen ships and dozens of aircraft are involved in the mission.

1 hr 48 min ago

Official says travelers in Europe may soon face flight cancellations due to lack of fuel

Olesya Dmitracova

By Olesya Dmitracova

A track carrying aviation fuel is seen on the tarmac at an airport in Venice, Italy, on April 8.

A track carrying aviation fuel is seen on the tarmac at an airport in Venice, Italy, on April 8. Davide Bonaldo / SOPA Images/Sipa USA

If oil supplies remain trapped because of the war with Iran, some upcoming flights in Europe may be canceled, the head of the International Energy Agency told the Associated Press today.

Europe has “maybe six weeks or so (of) jet fuel left,” Fatih Birol said, echoing his warning on an April 1 podcast that jet fuel and diesel shortages were likely in Europe this month or by early May.

Speaking today, he said that for Europe, if the Strait of Hormuz isn’t reopened, “soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be canceled as a result of lack of jet fuel.”

Birol’s forecast of a looming jet fuel shortage is slightly more upbeat than another recent warning: On April 9, ACI Europe, which represents European airports, said Europe was only three weeks away from such a shortage.

Airlines have already been dropping some less profitable flights as jet fuel prices have soared since the start of the war.

1 hr 52 min ago

US warns ships trying to bypass blockade that it could use force if they do not comply

Kit Maher

By Kit Maher

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine speaks during a briefing on the Iran war at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, on Thursday.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine speaks during a briefing on the Iran war at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, on Thursday. Nathan Howard/Reuters

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine said Thursday that the United States has threatened to board or use force against ships that do not comply with the blockade of vessels coming to or from Iranian ports.

When the blockade started, Caine said “seven ships of interest” were a “concern” for US Central Command as he described the warning issued to vessels attempting to cross the blockade.

“A junior officer picks up that mic and transmits, and I quote, ‘Do not attempt to breach the blockade. Vessels will be boarded for interdiction and seizure, transiting to or from Iranian ports. Turn around or prepare to be boarded. If you do not comply with this blockade, we will use force,’” Caine said.

He explained that the blockade is impacting “all ships, regardless of nationality” and that enforcement will occur “inside Iran’s territorial seas and in international waters.”

So far, Caine said “13 ships have made the wise choice of turning around” and while the US is prepared to board ships or bring force, “As of this morning, US Central Command has not been required to board any particular ships.”

2 hr 5 min ago

Hegseth says Iran is digging for "remaining launchers and missiles"

Kaanita Iyer

By Kaanita Iyer

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said during a news briefing Thursday that Iran is “digging out” missiles and launchers from bombed facilities, arguing that the country is unable to “replenish” its military capabilities.

Addressing Iranian leaders, Hegseth said, “While you are digging out, which is exactly what you’re doing, digging out of bombed out and devastated facilities, we are only getting stronger. You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them. You have no defense industry. No ability to replenish your offensive or defensive capabilities.

CNN has reported that satellite images have shown earth-moving equipment digging for missile launchers trapped underground amid the ceasefire.

Yetkin Report - Yazar : Canan Güllü - 16 Nisan 2026 perşembe - Okul Katliamı Toplumsal Çöküşün Yansımaları Yazar: Canan Güllü / 16 Nisan 2026, Perşembe / Oda: Siyaset

Okul Katliamı Toplumsal Çöküşün Yansımaları

Yazar: Canan Güllü / 16 Nisan 2026, Perşembe / Oda: Siyaset

Dün Şanlıurfa’da, bugün (15 Nisan 2026) Kahramanmaraş’ta yaşanan okul baskınları yalnızca “güvenlik açığı” başlığıyla ele alınamayacak kadar derin, çok katmanlı ve toplumsal bir krizi işaret ediyor. Elbette okulların fiziki güvenliği, giriş-çıkış denetimleri, risk analizleri ve acil müdahale planları hayati önemdedir. Ancak bu olayları sadece kapıya konulacak bir güvenlik görevlisi ya da metal dedektörle açıklamak, meselenin özünü görmemek olur. Çünkü o kapıdan içeri giren şiddet, yalnızca bireysel bir öfkenin değil; uzun süredir inşa edilen bir toplumsal iklimin sonucudur. Bugün kendimize sormamız gereken temel soru şudur: Bir kişi eline silahı alıp bir okulu basma cesaretini, meşruiyetini ve motivasyonunu nereden buluyor? Bu sorunun yanıtı bizi doğrudan toplumsal yapıdaki çözülmelere götürüyor.

Şiddetin sıradanlaştığı, cezasızlığın yaygınlaştığı, hukukun güven vermediği, adalet duygusunun zedelendiği bir ortamda bireyler kendilerini hak aramanın değil, güç kullanmanın öznesi olarak görmeye başlıyor. Bu noktada şiddet, bir “araç” olmaktan çıkıp bir “dil” haline geliyor. Televizyon yapımlarında, dizilerde ve dijital platformlarda sürekli yeniden üretilen mafya, çete ve güç ilişkileri; erkekliği şiddet üzerinden tanımlayan anlatılar; sorun çözme yöntemini silaha ve zorbalığa indirgeyen senaryolar, bu dilin en güçlü taşıyıcılarıdır. Bu içerikler yalnızca birer kurgu değildir; aynı zamanda toplumsal bilinçaltını şekillendiren, normalize eden ve meşrulaştıran araçlardır. Gençler bu anlatılarla büyüyor, şiddeti bir güç göstergesi olarak içselleştiriyor. Ardından gerçek hayat, bu kurguların sahnesine dönüşüyor

Öte yandan cezasızlık politikaları da bu tabloyu derinleştiriyor. Kadın cinayetlerinde, çocuk istismarında, ev içi şiddette ve organize suçlarda faillerin yeterli yaptırımlarla karşılaşmaması; topluma açık bir mesaj veriyor: “Yaptığının bedelini ödemezsin.” Bu mesaj, yalnızca suç işleyenleri değil, suç işlemeyi düşünenleri de cesaretlendiriyor. Şiddetin bedelsiz kaldığı bir düzende, okulların kapıları ne kadar korunursa korunsun, o kapıya yönelen irade engellenemez. Ekonomik yoksunluk ve derinleşen eşitsizlikler de bu şiddet ikliminin önemli bir parçasıdır. Umutsuzluk, dışlanmışlık ve geleceksizlik duygusu; özellikle genç erkekler arasında öfke birikimini artırıyor. Bu öfke, yönlendirilmediğinde ve sağlıklı kanallarla ifade edilmediğinde, kolayca şiddete evriliyor.

Eğitim sistemi ise tam bu noktada yalnızca akademik bilgi veren bir yapı olmaktan çıkmalı; duygusal dayanıklılığı, çatışma çözme becerilerini ve toplumsal sorumluluk bilincini geliştiren bir alan haline gelmelidir. Kadın cinayetleriyle okul baskınları arasında doğrudan bir bağ kurmak ilk bakışta zor görünebilir. Oysa her ikisi de aynı ataerkil şiddet kültürünün farklı tezahürleridir. Kadınlar üzerinde kurulan tahakküm, erkekliğin güç ve kontrol üzerinden tanımlanması, “haklı şiddet” algısının yerleşmesi; toplumsal şiddetin tüm biçimlerini besler. Kadına yönelen şiddeti önleyemeyen bir sistem, çocukları ve gençleri de koruyamaz. Çünkü mesele bireysel değil, yapısaldır. Bu nedenle çözüm de çok boyutlu olmak zorundadır.

Evet, okullarda güvenlik önlemleri artırılmalıdır. Ancak bununla eş zamanlı olarak; medya politikaları gözden geçirilmeli, şiddeti özendiren içeriklere karşı etkin denetim mekanizmaları kurulmalı, cezasızlık kültürü ortadan kaldırılmalı, hukukun üstünlüğü yeniden tesis edilmelidir. Eğitim müfredatı toplumsal cinsiyet eşitliğini, şiddetsiz iletişimi ve insan haklarını merkeze alacak şekilde yeniden düzenlenmelidir. Yerel yönetimler, sivil toplum ve merkezi idare arasında güçlü bir iş birliği sağlanmalıdır.

En önemlisi de şu gerçeği kabul etmeliyiz: Şiddet, bir sonuçtur. Eğer biz bu sonucu ortadan kaldırmak istiyorsak, onu üreten nedenlerle yüzleşmek zorundayız. Aksi halde her yeni olaydan sonra aynı cümleleri kurar, aynı önlemleri tartışır ve aynı acıları yeniden yaşarız. Bugün Şanlıurfa’da ve Kahramanmaraş’ta yaşananlar, bize bir kez daha şunu hatırlatıyor: Güvenlik yalnızca kapıda başlamaz; toplumun vicdanında başlar. O vicdanı onarmadan, hiçbir kapıyı yeterince koruyamayız. Tehlikenin farkında olmalıyız.

*TKDF Başkanı Canan Güllü’nün yaptığı yazılı açıklamanın tam metnidir.

Yazar: Murat Yetkin / 16 Nisan 2026, Perşembe - Türk Silahlı Kuvvetlerinin 13 ülkede 70 binden fazla askeri var

Türk Silahlı Kuvvetlerinin 13 ülkede 70 binden fazla askeri var

Yazar: Murat Yetkin / 16 Nisan 2026, Perşembe / Oda: Siyaset

Millî Savunma Bakanlığı kaynaklarına göre, Türk Silahlı

Kuvvetlerinin (TSK) 13 ülkede 70 binden fazla birliği

bulunuyor. Bu TSK’nın TBMM’de kabul edilen bütçeye göre

550 bin olan aktif birliklerinin yaklaşık 8’de biri, ya da yüzde

13’ünün Türkiye sınırları dışında görev yaptığı anlamına geliyor.

Türkiye’nin yurt dışındaki askeri birliklerinden 11’i bulundukları ülkede ikili ve/veya çok taraflı anlaşmalara göre, Suriye ve Irak’taki birlikleri ise terörle mücadele kapsamında geçici “harekât üsleri” kapsamında görev yapıyor.
YetkinReport’un sorularını yanıtlayan savunma kaynakları TSK’nın “geniş bir coğrafyada aktif olarak varlık göstermesini”, Türkiye’nin “sınır ötesi güvenlik stratejileri ve uluslararası barış misyonlarına verdiği önemin somutlaşması” olarak tanımlıyor.
Milli Savunma Bakanı Yaşar Güler’in ABD ve İsrail’in İran’la savaşının ateşkes günlerinde Katar’ı ve Katar’daki Türk birliğini ziyareti bunun örneği.

13 Ülkede 70 Bin Asker

Türkiye’nin yurt dışındaki askeri varlığının önemli bir kısmını şu 5 nokta oluşturuyor:
1- Kıbrıs Türk Barış Kuvvetleri Komutanlığı, bir korgeneral komutasında, deniz ve hava unsurlarıyla takviye edilmiş iki mekanize piyade tümeni, bir zırhlı tugay, bir topçu alayı, tank birliği, İHA/SİHA birliği ve dönüşümlü olarak devriye gezen firkateyn, korvet ve hücumbotlardan oluşuyor.

2- Azerbaycan Görev Grup Komutanlığı, bir tümgeneral komutasında zırhlı birlikler ve komando birlikleri, askeri danışmanlar, eğitmenler ve uzmanlar, dönüşümlü görev yapan F-16 ve İHA/SİHA birimleri. Türkiye ve Azerbaycan silahlı kuvvetleri 2026 başından itibaren NATO-uyumlu “Müşterek Harekât Yeteneği” statüsünde bulunuyor.

3- Libya Türk Deniz Görev Grubu, bir tümgeneral komutasında, asgari 1 firkateyn, 1 korvet ve 1 lojistik destek gemisi, İHA/SİHA birimi, dönüşümlü F-16 birliği, Korkut ve Hisar hava savunma sistemleri, Libya silahlı kuvvetlerinin modernizasyonuna destek olmak üzere askeri danışman ve uzmanlardan oluşuyor.

4- Katar Türk Birleşik Müşterek Kuvvet Komutanlığı, bir tuğgeneral komutasında bir mekanize piyade taburu, Fırtına obüsleri, Korkut hava savunma sistemi, 2 karakol gemisi, 6 adet F-16 ve zırhlı devriye araçlarından oluşuyor.

5- Somali Türk Görev Kuvveti Komutanlığı (TURKSOM), bir korgeneral komutasında, El Kaide bağlantılı El Şebap örgütüyle mücadele ve Somali ordusunun yeniden yapılanması ve modernizasyonuna destek veren askeri danışman ve uzmanlar, 2024 anlaşmasıyla 10 yıl boyunca Somali karasularını ve açık deniz petrol sondaj gemilerini korumak ve açık deniz korsanlığıyla mücadele amaçlı asgari 1 firkateyn, 2 korvet, 1 tank çıkarma gemisi, 3 F-16, Korkut ve Hisar hava savunma birimlerinden oluşuyor.

İkili ve Çok Taraflı Anlaşmalar

6- Arnavutluk Ekip Başkanlığı
7- Kosova Türk Temsil Heyet Başkanlığı
8- Bosna-Hersek Türk Temsil Heyet Başkanlığı
9- Lübnan UNIFIL Harekâtı
10- NATO Irak Misyonu
11- DEAŞ Koalisyonu görevi kapsamında ABD, Katar ve Ürdün’de

Bunların yanı sıra, Birleşmiş Milletler görevi kapsamında Lübnan, Somali ve Kosova’da da TSK birimleri görev yapıyor.
Görülebileceği gibi, Türkiye’nin Kafkaslar ve Balkanlar’dan Hazar ve Akdeniz’e, Basra Körfezi ve Hürmüz Boğazı’ndan Doğu Afrika ve Babülmendep Boğazı’na dek askeri varlığı bulunuyor.

Suriye ve Irak’taki Türk askerî varlığı ise geçici harekât üsleri olarak anılıyor. Bunları, örneğin ABD’nin Katar’daki ya da Suudi Arabistan’daki üsleriyle karıştırmamak gerekiyor. Bunların asıl görevi PKK ve DEAŞ (IŞİD) ile mücadeleyi Türkiye sınırlarının dışında karşılayabilmek. Bölgedeki savaşların durulması ve Terörsüz Türkiye çerçevesinde PKK’nın silah bırakması gerçek olursa, bu geçici birliklere de ihtiyaç kalmayacağı yorumu yapılıyor.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Johnson backs Trump, Vance in criticism of pope House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was “taken a little bit aback” by recent comments from the pope.---By Cheyanne M. Daniels 04/15/2026 02:10 PM EDT Updated: 04/15/2026 04:08 PM EDT

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Johnson backs Trump, Vance in criticism of pope

House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was “taken a little bit aback” by recent comments from the pope.

House Speaker Mike Johnson looks on during a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony on Capitol Hill on April 14, 2026. | Francis Chung/POLITICO

By Cheyanne M. Daniels04/15/2026 02:10 PM EDTUpdated: 04/15/2026 04:08 PM EDT

House Speaker Mike Johnson on Wednesday appeared to side with the White House in its growing feud with the Vatican, telling reporters at the Capitol that while Pope Leo XIV is welcome to share his opinion on politics, he should “expect some political response” in return.

“I’m not one to criticize clerics and religious leaders. We defend free speech, and we certainly defend the right, the free exercise of religion,” Johnson said. “A pontiff or any religious leader can say anything they want, but obviously, if you wade into political waters, I think you should expect some political response, and I think the pope’s received some of that.”

President Donald Trump has lashed out at Leo in recent days for his criticism of the U.S.-Israel war in Iran. The president accused the leader of the Catholic church of being “terrible for foreign policy” and, in a Tuesday social media post, called on “someone [to] please tell Pope Leo that Iran has killed at least 42,000 innocent, completely unarmed, protesters in the last two months, and that for Iran to have a Nuclear Bomb is absolutely unacceptable.”

The president has said he will not apologize to Leo, and Vice President JD Vance, the highest-ranking Catholic elected official in the U.S., waded into the debate Tuesday, warning Leo to “be careful” when discussing theology.

The first American pope has previously said he does not wish to engage in a debate with Trump. He, along with a multitude of other Catholic leaders, has repeatedly condemned the war in Iran and urged leaders to find a peaceful resolution.

The first pope from the Order of St. Augustine, Leo has also highlighted the St. Augustine teachings of a “just war,” a religious framework that examines the justification of how and why a war is fought. In his Easter address, Leo said Jesus does not hear the prayers of those with blood on their hands — something Johnson said he was “taken a little bit aback” by.

“There’s a time to every purpose under heaven,” Johnson said. “I think what the president’s comments, what the vice president’s comments, reflect is their understanding, deep in the [Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility] and the classified briefings, of the stakes that are so high in the situation that we’re facing.”

Johnson’s defense of Trump comes just a day after the speaker said he asked the president to delete an AI-generated image Trump posted of himself as a Christ-like figure. Trump did delete the image, though he told reporters that he thought he was being depicted as a doctor.

“I don’t want to engage in a theological debate with the pope,” said Johnson. “I certainly respect the pope. I would just say that these are matters that people of good faith and good sense can debate and think through, and I think that’s what that reflects.”

Johnson wasn’t the only Republican to throw their support behind Trump’s criticism of the pope.

Texas Rep. Troy Nehls told Leo to “stay out of politics” on Wednesday.

“The pope needs to keep his business to leading his flock, leading the church, and stay out of the political arena,” Nehls told reporters. “Go lead your church. Stay out of politics. We didn’t elect the pope to be the president. Donald Trump is our president.”