Pope Leo makes emotional plea for peace in Lebanon

On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV made a sincere call for peace in Lebanon as he concluded his inaugural international journey. Speaking at Beirut airport before his return to Rome, he stated, May the attacks and hostilities end. We must understand that armed conflict brings no advantage.

Since last year's intense conflict, a delicate ceasefire has been observed between Israel and the Iranian-backed Shiite Hezbollah group. Despite this, Israeli airstrikes have continued almost daily in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of nearly 130 civilians according to United Nations reports. Suspected Israeli drones were also detected over Beirut shortly before the Popes departure.

Earlier, addressing 150,000 faithful at a Mass in Beirut, Leo encouraged Lebanon to rise again. Tens of thousands gathered along the Beirut waterfront hours before the service, waving Lebanese and Vatican flags. The Pope received thunderous applause as he arrived in his enclosed popemobile.

During his sermon, the pontiff emphasized that Lebanon could regain its former glory if its diverse religious and political communities unite. The nation is home to an array of religious groups, including Sunni and Shiite Muslims as well as various Christian denominations, notably Catholics.

Leo highlighted that a peaceful Lebanon could become a house of justice and brotherhood and serve as a beacon of peace for the entire Levant.

The Pope also visited the site of the devastating 2020 Beirut port explosion, offering prayers and greeting over 200 relatives of the victims.

This Mass in Lebanon marked the conclusion of Pope Leo XIV's first foreign trip, which commenced in Turkey on Thursday. At the airport, he expressed regret for not being able to visit other parts of Lebanon, particularly the southern regions currently affected by conflict and uncertainty.

He concluded with a message on constructive solutions: While weapons are lethal, negotiation, mediation, and dialogue are productive. Let us choose peace as a path, not merely as a destination!

Author: Sophia Brooks