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ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE:
Pope Leo XIV called for an end to hostilities in Lebanon and new approaches for peace in the Middle East before returning to Rome on Tuesday, ending his inaugural visit abroad as pontiff.
A 150,000-strong mass at Beirut’s waterfront was the highlight of the trip by the head of the world’s Catholics, who arrived in Lebanon on Sunday after visiting Turkey, the start of his six-day trip.
Before landing in Rome on Tuesday afternoon, the 70-year-old pontiff told journalists aboard the papal plane that he looked forward to his next international trip, which has yet to be officially confirmed.
“I hope to make a trip to Africa, which would possibly be my next trip to confirm,” he said, adding that he hoped to visit Algeria “to visit the places where St Augustine lived”.
He also mentioned “Latin America, Argentina, Uruguay” as possible visits.
In Lebanon, the US pontiff received a jubilant welcome in a nation beset by a years-long economic collapse and which is still reeling from last year’s war between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah, with many fearing renewed hostilities.
Noting that he was unable to visit all of the country, Pope Leo expressed his “aspiration for peace, along with a heartfelt appeal: may the attacks and hostilities cease”.
Israel has continued to launch strikes on Lebanon despite a November 2024 ceasefire with Hezbollah and has escalated attacks in recent weeks — but has not announced any raids during the pope’s visit.
Under heavy pressure, Lebanon’s government has committed to disarming the Iran-backed group, which however has rejected the idea.
The pope appealed in his mass “to those who hold political and social authority here and in all countries marked by war and violence. Listen to the cry of your peoples who are calling for peace”.
He said that “the Middle East needs new approaches in order to reject the mindset of revenge and violence, to overcome political, social and religious divisions, and to open new chapters in the name of reconciliation and peace”.
Later, as he prepared to depart from Beirut airport he declared: “While weapons are lethal, negotiation, mediation and dialogue are constructive. Let us all choose peace as a way, not just as a goal!”
Earlier, the pope wound his way through the crowd at the outdoor mass in his popemobile as people offered roses, with senior officials including President Joseph Aoun in attendance.
“The pope puts joy and peace in our hearts and strengthens our hope,” said Samira Khoury, among some 150,000 people in the crowd.
Leo told those gathered: “I especially pray for beloved Lebanon. I ask the international community once again to spare no effort in promoting processes of dialogue and reconciliation.”
