Trump's Iran Progress Claims, Oil Industry Profit From Iran War, Rubio Meets Pope Leo

This episode of Up First from NPR examines three major developments in U.S. foreign policy and economic impact: President Trump's repeated claims of imminent progress in negotiations with Iran, despite no concrete agreement from Tehran; the windfall profits being reaped by major oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil due to elevated global oil prices driven by the ongoing conflict, while consumers face record gas prices; and the diplomatic fallout from Trump's public attacks on Pope Leo, the first American pope, which have strained relations with the Vatican and even alienated a key European ally, Italian Prime Minister Georgia Maloney. The episode highlights the disconnect between Trump's optimistic rhetoric and the reality on the ground, with Iran still refusing to open the Strait of Hormuz or abandon its nuclear enrichment program, oil prices remaining high due to supply constraints, and the Vatican pushing for peace over military escalation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s upcoming meeting with Pope Leo is framed as a delicate diplomatic mission to repair damage caused by Trump’s rhetoric, especially as midterm elections loom and conservative Catholic voters become a political concern. Key takeaways include: 1) Trump’s repeated claims of 'progress' with Iran lack evidence and may be eroding credibility with allies and the public; 2) Oil companies are profiting from war-driven prices, but are hesitant to increase production due to long-term risk; 3) The U.S. government’s attacks on the Pope have backfired, damaging diplomatic relationships and risking voter alienation; 4) The war in Iran is having broad economic consequences, including inflation and supply chain disruptions; 5) Diplomacy is being undermined by political posturing, with real-world consequences for global stability and U.S. influence.