Washington, April 15 -- A controversial AI-generated image shared by US President Donald Trump has triggered backlash and satire online, with comedian Jon Stewart delivering one of the sharpest reactions.

The now-deleted image depicted Mr Trump in a Christ-like avatar - dressed in white robes with a red sash - appearing to heal a frail man lying in bed. The stylised visual also included patriotic imagery such as American flags, bald eagles and fighter jets, along with a winged figure in the background.

Reacting to the image on The Daily Show, Mr Stewart appeared visibly stunned before turning the moment into a comedic segment.

"What the f-?" he said, pausing repeatedly as he reacted to the image.

The comedian then joked about what he ...