Pope Leo XIV, on a visit to Lebanon to bring a message of peace in the context of the crisis and conflict with Israel.

Pope Leo XIV has left Istanbul for Beirut for a 48-hour visit, aimed at promoting peace in Lebanon, a country marked by economic crises and armed conflicts with Israel. This is the first papal visit to Lebanon since that of Benedict XVI in 2012. Lebanon, once known as a model of coexistence, has been facing a deep crisis since 2019, characterized by economic collapse and deterioration of public services. The Pope will meet with Lebanese political leaders and will deliver a speech in front of the authorities. During his visit to Turkey, he emphasized the importance of unity between Catholics and Orthodox in the context of current conflicts. The Pope was also warmly received by the Catholic community in Turkey, despite strict security measures. Lebanon has declared two days off for the occasion of the Pope's visit and has implemented extensive security measures.