Pope Leo XIV’s First Overseas Papal Trip Concludes in Crisis-Stricken Lebanon
Summary: Pope Leo XIV concluded his inaugural overseas papal trip in Lebanon, a nation concurrently experiencing a severe economic crisis, the aftermath of a 2020 port explosion, and the effects of ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The Pope’s itinerary included a Mass in Beirut, prayers at the site of the 2020 port blast, and meetings with clergy and youth. Concurrently, the city of Tyre and villages in southern Lebanon continued to face displacement and infrastructure damage from Israeli airstrikes, despite a standing ceasefire. Sources present conflicting reports regarding the security situation in the south.
Papal Visit: Schedule and Engagements
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Lebanon on Sunday evening for a three-day visit, his first to the Middle East as pontiff. His itinerary included:
- A visit to the Mount of Saint Charbel Makhlouf.
- An address to clergy and religious workers at the Our Lady of Lebanon sanctuary in Harissa, where he listened to testimonies from a priest, a nun, and a domestic worker regarding their experiences during recent conflicts.
- A meeting with young people, a demographic that constitutes a notable portion of those emigrating from Lebanon.
- A final Mass at Beirut's waterfront attended by an estimated 150,000 worshippers, including uniformed UN peacekeepers.
Beirut Port Blast Site Visit
The Pope conducted prayers at the site of the August 4, 2020, Beirut port explosion. He lit a candle at a memorial engraved with victims' names and met with their relatives. The explosion, involving 2,750 tonnes of unsafely stored ammonium nitrate, resulted in at least 218 fatalities, damaged a large section of the capital, and caused billions of dollars in economic damage.
According to source reports, no senior officials have been convicted in connection with the incident; relatives and activists allege the domestic investigation has been hindered by political leadership to prevent scrutiny of those responsible.
During his homily at the waterfront Mass, the Pope advocated for justice. He also stated he was "deeply moved" and shared "the thirst for truth and justice, of so many families, of an entire country."
Logistical and Security Context
- Southern Lebanon Visits: The Vatican determined that a visit to southern Lebanon was not advisable due to ongoing security concerns. In his farewell address, Pope Leo XIV mentioned that "conflict and uncertainty" in southern Lebanon prevented him from visiting the region.
- Preparation: Roads in the Daroun-Harissa municipality were repaved in preparation for the visit, having been stalled due to the economic crisis and COVID-19 lockdown.
Situation in Southern Lebanon and Tyre
Tyre
Tyre, a coastal city in Lebanon, has been targeted by Israeli airstrikes since late May 2023, despite a ceasefire. Deputy Mayor Alwan Sharafaddine stated at least 9,000 people remain in the city. Airstrikes have damaged UNESCO-listed heritage sites near the ancient port. Some residents have returned to their homes after exhausting funds for hotels. Israel issued a warning that it might attack the Christian quarter.
Alma al-Chaab
Alma al-Chaab, an exclusively Christian community in the Tyre district, has experienced significant damage. Mayor Chadi Sayah reported that nearly 300 homes and infrastructure have been affected by Israeli airstrikes. The village lacks consistent electricity and running water a year post-ceasefire. Mayor Sayah stated the village has received limited support from the state and the church. The Israeli border and military installations are less than a mile from Alma al-Chaab.
Displacement and Humanitarian Situation
- Over 1.2 million people in Lebanon have been displaced by the war.
- Public shelters are at capacity, with some residents sleeping on beaches or in storefronts.
- The Lebanese government provides limited assistance, with communities and U.N. organizations offering support.
Country Context and Conflicting Reports
Demographics and Emigration
Christians are estimated to constitute approximately 30% of Lebanon’s population, the highest percentage in the Middle East. This figure is based on the last census conducted under French rule in 1932. Many Lebanese citizens have emigrated since the financial collapse of 2019 and the port explosion. Christian and young adult Lebanese are a notable portion of those departing.
Security Situation
- Ceasefire Status: A year-long ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel is in effect.
- Israeli Reports: The Israeli military states, without providing specific evidence, that Hezbollah is rebuilding its military capabilities.
- Reported Incidents: Despite the ceasefire, reports indicate a drone strike in Beirut killed a Hezbollah commander, and Israeli attacks have damaged Christian villages. Pope Leo XIV referenced that "conflict and uncertainty" prevented his visit to southern Lebanon.
- Hezbollah Status: Hezbollah has maintained the ceasefire but faces pressure from the Lebanese government to disarm, according to source reports.
Local Statements
"Solidarity among residents serves the city well; Tyre is the real face of the Lebanese family."
— Mayor Hassan Dbouk
Father Fadi El Mir, responsible for logistics at Our Lady of Lebanon, stated that any inter-religious tension in Lebanon is politically motivated rather than community-based. He also noted that Catholic schools in southern Lebanon are attended by a significant number of Shiite students.
"We love the Lebanese state. But they should love us as much as we love them."
— Mayor Chadi Sayah
Mayor Sayah added: "We believed the Church should help us rebuild. If they want Christians to stay in this area they need to help."