Pope Leo XIV is on his first visit to Lebanon. He arrives at a pivotal time for the country, buffeted by conflict with Israel and a devastating economic crisis.

Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to a two-state solution during an airborne news conference on his maiden papal journey. He emphasized that establishing a Palestinian state alongside Israel remains the only viable path to ensuring justice and long-term stability for both peoples.

The Vatican continues to advocate for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine and, despite resistance, will continue to seek mediation between Israel and Palestine, Pope Leo XIV said in an impromptu airborne press conference.

The pope calls on Lebanese leaders to rise above divisions and sends a message of hope to Christians amid political crises and fears of renewed conflict with Israel

Pope Leo visited Istanbul's Blue Mosque on Saturday, but was not welcomed by the head of Turkey's state-run religious organization despite earlier plans.

Pope Leo XIV’s visits holy sites in Lebanon on Monday that draw Christian and Muslims as he seeks to recognize the importance of the country's religious pluralism and also send a message to Christians not to abandon the region.

Pope Leo XIV Sunday arrived in Beirut as he continues first foreign trip to bring a message of peace the region at a time of war and escalating tensions.