Pope Francis compares Trump to King Herod who tried to kill Jesus and innocent children

The Pope also talked about the rise of populism and said that it is at the root of the migrant problems in Europe.

UPDATED JAN 21, 2020

Pope Francis and U.S. President Donald Trump (Source : Getty Images)

Pope Francis has compared President Donald Trump to King Herod, who massacred innocent children in ancient Palestine while attempting to kill baby Jesus, according to a Jesuit journal. The pontiff made the statement while addressing his brother Jesuits during his recent visit to Thailand.

Francis reportedly slammed Trump and his administration in his thinly-veiled condemnation, suggesting Trump, like a modern-day Herod, was separating families at the border while allowing drugs to freely flow into the country.

Pope Francis visits the Saint Louis Hospital on November 21, 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand. Pope Francis arrived in Bangkok yesterday to begin a three day tour in Thailand followed by Japan. (Getty Images)

"In other parts there are walls that even separate children from parents. Herod comes to mind," Francis said. "Yet for drugs, there’s no wall to keep them out. The phenomenon of migration is compounded by war, hunger and a ‘defensive mindset,’ which makes us in a state of fear believe that you can defend yourself only by strengthening borders. At the same time, there is exploitation."

The pope, during a question and answer session, also talked about the rise of populism and said that it is at the root of migrants' problems in Europe.

"I must admit that I am shocked by some of the narratives I hear in Europe about borders,” the pope said. “Populism is gaining strength. The phenomenon of refugees has always existed, but today it is better known because of social differences, hunger, political tensions and especially war. For these reasons, migratory movements are intensifying."

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks about immigration reform in the Rose Garden of the White House on May 16, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Getty Images)

“What is the answer the world gives? The policy of waste," he said, adding that refugees are considered waste material in today's society. The pontiff also highlighted the importance of welcoming a foreigner in the Christian teachings.

“Refugees are waste material. The Mediterranean has been turned into a cemetery. The notorious cruelty of some detention centers in Libya touches my heart. The Christian tradition has a rich evangelical experience in dealing with the problem of refugees. We also remember the importance of welcoming the foreigner as the Old Testament teaches us," the Pope added.