Trump’s AI Image Sparks Row

The latest flashpoint emerged after US President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated image depicting himself in a Christ-like form on social media, prompting a sharp response from Iran.

Reacting to the post, Iran took a swipe at Trump, saying: “Is it Epstein being cared for in the Healing Ministry of Trump?”—an apparent reference to Jeffrey Epstein and Trump’s alleged past association with him.

The image showed Trump in a robe, with a glowing hand appearing to treat a patient lying on a hospital bed. Visual elements such as the Statue of Liberty, a large US flag, fighter jets and an eagle were also featured in the background. The scene included a nurse, a woman praying, and a uniformed soldier.

Backlash and Deletion

The post quickly drew criticism online for invoking imagery associated with Jesus Christ healing the sick. It was later deleted.

Speaking to CBS News, Trump said: “I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor.” He added that the image was intended to reference the Red Cross, saying, “There’s a Red Cross worker there, which we support. And only the fake news could come up with that one.”

Explaining his decision to remove the post, Trump said: “Normally I don’t like doing that, but I didn’t want to have anybody be confused. People were confused.”

Wider Diplomatic Context

The post came at a time when Trump had also criticised Pope Leo XIV, who had been vocal in opposing US and Israeli military operations in Iran.

Hormuz Blockade Jibe

In a separate development, Iran also targeted the US over its reported blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Iranian Embassy in Hyderabad wrote on X: “The Strait of Hormuz isn’t social media. If someone blocks you, you can’t just block them back.”

The remark followed reports that Washington had begun enforcing a naval blockade around Iranian-linked shipping routes, further escalating tensions despite a fragile ceasefire between the two countries.