Donald Trump said an AI-generated image he posted on Truth Social showing him in a Christ-like pose was actually intended to depict him as a doctor, not a religious figure.

Trump shared the image Sunday night on his social media platform, sparking immediate backlash from religious groups and some of his own supporters who called it blasphemous. The post came minutes after Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV on Truth Social, calling the pontiff “WEAK” on crime and “terrible” on foreign policy.

What Happened

The image, which circulated widely on social media, appeared to show Trump in a pose reminiscent of religious iconography. Critics interpreted the timing as particularly controversial, as the post came on Orthodox Easter during ongoing conflict with Iran.

By Monday morning, the image had been removed from Trump’s Truth Social account. Trump told CBS News: “Normally I don’t like doing that, but I didn’t want to have anybody be confused.”

Trump’s Explanation

When asked about the post, Trump dismissed concerns and reframed the image’s meaning. “It wasn’t a depiction, I did post it and I thought it was me as a doctor, and had to do with red cross as a red cross worker, which we support,” Trump said, according to VT.

Trump added: “It’s supposed to be me as a doctor, making people better, and I do make people better.” He blamed media coverage for the controversy, suggesting outlets misinterpreted the image’s intent.

Official Response

White House chief photographer Daniel Torok defended the image on X, stating it contained no religious symbols. “There were no halos, no thorns, no nail marks, no angels present,” Torok wrote.

Pope Leo XIV responded to the controversy during a papal flight to Algeria on Monday. “I have no fear of the Trump administration. I will not enter into debate,” the Pope said, adding that his focus remains on “the mission of the Church in the world today.”

This story has been updated. CNN’s Digital team contributed to this report.