Donald Trump has once again drawn attention for circulating religious-themed digital artwork featuring himself. This time, he highlighted an AI-generated image that shows him being held by Jesus Christ, a post that quickly stirred reactions across social media platforms.

The image was first shared on X by an account named “Irish for Trump,” which framed the post with language suggesting divine intervention in contemporary political events. The caption referenced claims about sinister forces being exposed and implied that God might be working through Trump. The wording echoed narratives commonly found in far-right conspiracy circles connected to the criminal case of Jeffrey Epstein.

However, despite the release of extensive documents related to Epstein under a transparency law, there has been no verified evidence supporting allegations of satanic rituals or child sacrifice.

Trump, who previously had social ties to Epstein and is mentioned in publicly released records, has asserted that his administration has taken unprecedented steps to bring accountability and justice for victims. Sharing a screenshot of the image on his platform Truth Social, Trump wrote that while critics on the political left might object, he personally found the image appealing.

The renewed controversy comes shortly after Trump removed another AI-generated picture that portrayed him in the likeness of Jesus — an unusual move for the former president, who rarely retracts posts. Following widespread criticism from both detractors and supporters, he deleted the earlier image and later told reporters that he believed it depicted him dressed as a doctor, blaming media outlets for mischaracterising it. He added that he did not want the image to cause confusion.

These posts have emerged at a time of escalating tension between Trump and Pope Leo XIV, the current leader of the Catholic Church. The pontiff has openly criticised the US military campaign in Iran, while Trump has publicly rebuked him, labelling his positions on crime and foreign affairs as weak.

In response, Pope Leo has avoided direct personal references but cautioned against the erosion of democratic norms, warning of the dangers of majoritarian dominance. He has also reiterated his opposition to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The episode highlights the intersection of politics, religion and digital media, as AI-generated imagery becomes an increasingly prominent — and controversial — element of online political discourse.