Pope Francis made a statement on Friday that will cause controversy in many people’s minds. The pontiff said that he was “concerned” about recent political rhetoric and he cautioned against nationalism and saying that recent political speeches he’s heard “resemble those of Hitler in 1934.”
“I am concerned because we hear speeches that resemble those of Hitler in 1934,” he told Italian outlet La Stampa. “’Us first. We … We … ‘ ” These are frightening thoughts.”
The pope’s words come after Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called for the parliament to be dissolved and asked President Sergio Mattarella to institute snap elections as an attempt to push the country’s government further right politically, The Washington Post reported.
Mattarella has not indicated whether he’ll act on Salvini’s request. But the Washington Post reported that the request comes as Italy continues to deal with months-long tensions within its coalition government.
The paper noted that Salvini has been compaired to President Trump for the kind of speech he has. He focuses on saying Italy should be put first and that the country should crack down on immigration.
Pope Francis made clear his thoughts on Friday saying that migrants should be integrated into society and that nationalism is an “attitude of isolation.”
The pope previously has spoken out against what he sees as a rising tide of nationalist views. Last month, he said no one is exempt from helping migrants, following clashes between Italy’s government and migrant rescue ships.
Salvini has spoken out openly against the pope and his stance on immigration, tweeting in 2016 that “The pope says migrants are not a danger. Whatever!”
What do you think about the comparison that is being made between Salvini and President Trump? Do you think that the Pope too aim at Trump with his recent comments on nationalism and immigration? We look forward to seeing your comments.
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