Watch: Vance heckled as he chides Pope

US Vice-President JD Vance faced heckling during a conservative event in Georgia after publicly chiding Pope Leo over his theological commentary, escalating a public feud sparked by the pontiff's criticism of the Trump administration's stance on the war in Iran. The incident occurred at a Turning Point USA gathering, where Vance told the crowd that the Pope needs to "be careful when he talks about matters of theology". As the vice-president delivered the rebuke, a heckler audibly interrupted his address. Vance's remarks follow a period of public sparring between Pope Leo—the first American pontiff—and former President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing conflict. Pope Leo has been a vocal critic of the war in Iran, repeatedly condemning the hostilities for leading to "absurd and inhuman violence". Despite the growing friction with Washington, the pontiff showed no signs of backing down. Speaking on Monday, Pope Leo firmly declared that he has "no fear" of the Trump administration or "speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do".