Explain the iconoclasm controversy

What will be an ideal response?

Leo III believed that the Muslims were successful because of their rejection of idolatry. He saw the banning of icons as a way to appease both God and perhaps also the Muslims. Thus, he issued an edict for the removal of all religious images and icons in 730 CE. He met with a significant backlash but went on to reign for an unprecedented 25 years, a success he attributed to God's favor at his decision. Later empresses Irene and Theodora were ardent defenders of the use of icons and their position prevailed in the history of the Eastern Church.