Pope Leo Concludes Lebanon Visit with Renewed Plea for End to Hostilities

Before departing Lebanon, Pope Leo delivered one of his strongest appeals yet for an immediate cessation of violence in the country’s southern regions, urging all parties involved to reject armed confrontation in favor of dialogue and diplomatic engagement. His farewell address acknowledged the areas he was unable to visit due to ongoing instability, noting that the tensions between Hezbollah and Israel had created conditions of uncertainty that continue to affect civilian life. The pope emphasized that armed struggle ultimately damages communities rather than strengthening them and stressed that negotiation remains the only constructive path forward. This message built upon themes repeated throughout his multi-day visit, during which he consistently highlighted the importance of peace, reconciliation and shared responsibility. His comments also reflected a broader concern over regional escalation, as renewed clashes and targeted strikes have raised fears of a wider conflict that could have long term implications for Lebanon’s social and economic recovery.

Pope Leo’s remarks came amid heightened concerns following a series of military exchanges that challenged the ceasefire established last year. The killing of a senior Hezbollah figure by Israeli forces earlier in the week prompted the group’s leadership to assert its right to respond, creating renewed instability along the border and prompting warnings from international observers. Lebanon’s president urged the global community to intervene diplomatically to prevent further escalation, arguing that recent strikes violated the previous agreement and placed civilians at risk. The pope acknowledged these conditions indirectly, appealing broadly to all who consider themselves adversaries of Lebanon to embrace the responsibility of peace and to refrain from actions that deepen suffering. He praised the country’s long tradition of cultural plurality and human solidarity, describing Lebanon as a place where communal bonds can overcome political divisions when nurtured with patience and goodwill. His farewell message emphasized the moral urgency of preventing further violence, reflecting the Vatican’s consistent stance on prioritizing nonviolent approaches in conflict zones.

In addition to his appeal for peace, Pope Leo highlighted the profound spiritual legacy he encountered during his visit, noting that Lebanon’s historical roots in both Christianity and Islam offer a powerful reminder of coexistence amid diversity. He reflected on his visit to the Beirut port explosion memorial, where he prayed for the victims and met families still seeking truth and justice. This moment underscored the deep emotional and social scars that remain in the country as it works toward rebuilding infrastructure, governance and trust. The pope also recalled that his predecessor, Pope Francis, had originally intended to make the trip as part of a broader effort to support regional peace but was prevented due to illness. Pope Leo concluded his remarks by encouraging Lebanese citizens to draw strength from their shared history and to cultivate unity that can inspire stability throughout the Middle East. He urged the nation to continue embodying the values of hospitality and fraternity, expressing confidence that cooperation and mutual care can shape a more peaceful future.