Pope Leo Brings Message of Peace to Lebanon, a Target of Israeli Strikes

Pope Leo arrived in Lebanon on Sunday, bringing a strong call for peace to a country grappling with escalating Israeli air strikes, regional instability, and ongoing humanitarian pressures. The visit marks the second and final leg of his first overseas trip as leader of the Catholic Church.

The U.S. pontiff travelled from Turkey following a four-day visit during which he warned that “humanity’s future is at risk” due to the surge in global conflicts and condemned the use of religion to justify violence.

Crowds Welcome the Pontiff

Hours before his arrival, crowds lined the roads connecting the airport to the presidential palace, waving Lebanese and Vatican flags. Pope Leo is scheduled to meet Lebanon’s president and prime minister, delivering only his second address to a foreign government since assuming leadership.

Lebanon — home to the largest Christian population in the Middle East — has been deeply affected by the spillover of the Gaza conflict, with clashes between Israel and Hezbollah culminating in a devastating Israeli offensive.

A Nation Under Pressure

Lebanese leaders fear Israel may intensify its strikes in the coming months as the country already struggles under the weight of 1 million Syrian and Palestinian refugees, economic collapse, and political paralysis.

Israel maintains that its operations, continuing even after last year’s ceasefire, aim to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military capabilities.

Hezbollah deputy leader Naim Qassem said Friday he hoped Pope Leo’s visit would help bring an end to Israeli attacks. Lebanon’s diverse communities echoed that sentiment, with Druze cleric Sheikh Sami Abi al-Muna saying the nation “needs the glimmer of hope represented by this visit.”

Tight Security and Heavy Rain

Lebanese army and internal security forces reinforced the airport and the route through Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, ahead of the Pope’s arrival.

Pope Leo travelled in the enclosed popemobile, arriving at the presidential palace amid heavy rain as crowds stood under white umbrellas. A traditional band welcomed him with drums and dance.

A Regional Tour of Faith and Dialogue

The Pope is expected to visit five Lebanese cities and towns during his trip — an important moment for a pontiff who was relatively unknown globally before his election in May. His visits and speeches are being closely watched as he steps onto the international stage.

On Saturday, he visited Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, marking his first visit to a Muslim place of worship as pope. He removed his shoes in respect but did not pray as scheduled, surprising some Vatican officials.

Earlier on Sunday, he attended an Orthodox Christian liturgy led by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in Istanbul, the spiritual leader of 260 million Orthodox Christians.

Pope Leo’s visit to Lebanon is seen as a significant gesture of solidarity at a time when many in the country are seeking reassurance, stability, and hope.

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