'We are considering what to do': Pope receives invitation for Trump's 'Board of Peace'; is US president seeking holy approval?

Pope Leo was among world leaders invited to join US President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace", Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's top diplomatic official, said on Wednesday.

Leo, the first US pope and a critic of some of Trump's policies, evaluated the invitation, Parolin said. "The pope has received an invitation and we are considering what to do," Parolin told journalists, as per Reuters.


"I believe it will be something that requires a bit of time for consideration before giving a response."

The board was initially aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza, however Trump said it would have a much broader remit and resolve conflicts globally.

While some countries, such as Israel and Egypt, accepted the invitation, a number of others expressed caution, with diplomats warning it could harm the work of the United Nations.

The Vatican press office did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Parolin's remarks.

Leo, who showed a robust but quiet diplomatic style since being elected pope last May, decried conditions for Palestinians living in Gaza several times, including in a forceful sermon on Christmas Eve.

The pope, leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics, rarely joined international boards. The Vatican has an extensive diplomatic service and is a permanent observer at the United Nations, often taking part in debates.