The gesture came on Monday through an English-language post on X shortly after Trump's attack on Truth Social.

Pezeshkian acted on behalf of the Iranian people to defend the pontiff and affirm reverence for Jesus (AS) as a prophet of peace. 

Foreign users from all walks of life and many languages on social media reacted positively and highlighted the contrast between the two leaders’ approaches to religious respect.  

Many praised Pezeshkian’s move as a powerful display of solidarity and tolerance.  

For example, commentators noted how the Iranian president’s words stood in sharp opposition to Trump’s attack and photo depicting himself in Christ-like form.  

Others described the episode as a rare bridge of understanding amid global tensions.  

Some international voices saw the Iranian president’s intervention as evidence of a potential shift toward greater interfaith dialogue.  

Meanwhile the worldwide praise has spotlighted Iran’s consistent stance of reverence toward Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary.  

This deep national respect stems directly from Islamic teachings that guide Iranian society.  

Pezeshkian acted on behalf of the Iranian people to defend the pontiff and affirm reverence for Jesus as a prophet of peace.

In the post Pezeshkian wrote: "His Holiness Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex), I condemn the insult to Your Excellency on behalf of the great nation of Iran, and declare that the desecration of Jesus, the prophet of peace and brotherhood, is not acceptable to any free person. I wish you glory by Allah."  

Separately the controversy began with Trump’s sharp criticism of the pope over his anti-war position.  

Trump also questioned the circumstances of Pope Leo XIV’s election.  

The pontiff had earlier voiced opposition to war including in contexts involving Iran.  

Pezeshkian’s timely statement marked an alignment from Tehran in support of the Catholic leader.  

Users worldwide shared the Iranian president’s post widely with many expressing surprise and approval at the gesture from an Iranian official.  

The reactions have prompted fresh reflection on the foundations of Iran’s position.  

Meanwhile the episode has been viewed by some as entry into a new period of history and a new world order.  

The global acclaim for Pezeshkian’s defense ultimately traces back to core Islamic principles enshrined in the Quran which Iranians uphold devoutly.  

Holy Mary also known as Maryam holds a singularly exalted place as the only woman directly named in the Quran.  

An entire chapter Surah Maryam is dedicated to her story and she is described as chosen and purified above the women of all nations.  

Jesus referred to as Isa is revered in the Quran as a major prophet a servant of God and a messenger of peace.  

These teachings emphasize Mary’s purity and Jesus’s honored status without attributing divinity to him yet affirm both as profound signs for humanity.  

Such scriptural foundations explain why Iranians naturally extend respect to Christian figures and why Pezeshkian’s defense resonated so strongly on the world stage.