Pope Leo XIV concluded his initial foreign trip as pontiff, visiting Turkey for three days before traveling to Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. This trip followed Israeli air strikes that impacted Beirut a week prior to his arrival.
Engagements and Statements in Turkey
During his visit to Turkey, Pope Leo XIV engaged in diplomatic interactions. Alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Pope addressed the use of economic and military power by nations, linking it to increased global conflict. He stated that "the future of humanity is at stake."
At an event in Iznik commemorating 1,700 years since a significant Christian council, Pope Leo XIV declared: "We must strongly reject the use of religion for justifying war, violence, or any form of fundamentalism or fanaticism."
His interactions with journalists were characterized by a deliberate and gentle manner.
Journey to Lebanon and Remarks on Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
During his flight from Istanbul to Beirut, Pope Leo XIV commented on the Israel-Palestinian conflict. He stated that any resolution must include a Palestinian state. He acknowledged that Israel currently does not accept this solution but affirmed the Vatican's continued friendship with Israel and its aspiration to serve as a mediating party.
Arrival and Meetings in Lebanon
Upon his arrival in Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV met with the country's political leaders, urging them to prioritize public service. He described the objective of his visits to both Turkey and Lebanon as being "a messenger of peace."
Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi, the leader of the Maronite Catholic Church, noted the significance of the Pope's visit for Lebanon, stating that it "brings hope" and that Lebanese citizens feel "uplifted." The visit coincided with a two-day national holiday in Lebanon and received welcomes from various religious communities.
Hezbollah, a Shia Muslim political party and militia designated a terrorist organization by some nations including the UK and US, conveyed its greetings and expressed "deep appreciation" for the Pope's presence. Among the flags displayed during his motorcade were those of Hezbollah.
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to hold meetings with local Christian, Muslim, and Druze leaders in Lebanon.
Papal Style and Predecessor Comparison
In contrast to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who often engaged passionately and extensively with reporters, Pope Leo XIV has demonstrated a more measured approach in his public interactions. Pope Francis had previously written in his autobiography that he anticipated a shorter papacy. Pope Leo XIV displayed emotion at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul during a worship service with the local Christian minority.