Hezbollahhas appealed to Pope Leo XIV to take a strong and unambiguous stand against Israel’s ongoing military operations as the pontiff commences his historic visit to Lebanon.
Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem, in a statement issued on Saturday, said the Pope’s presence in the country comes at a pivotal moment marked by rising tensions along the Lebanon–Israel border and intensifying fighting in Gaza. He urged the Catholic leader to “stand with the oppressed and speak truth to power,” adding that millions across the region look to the Vatican for moral clarity during moments of conflict.
According to Qassem, Israel’s recent airstrikes and cross-border actions have continued to put Lebanese civilians at risk, heightening fears of a broader confrontation. He said the international community has not done enough to halt what he described as Israel’s “persistent aggression,” and that the Pope’s voice could help galvanise stronger global pressure for de-escalation.
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“The Holy Father carries immense moral authority,” Qassem said. “We hope he will use this visit to call for an immediate end to the attacks, to defend the rights of civilians, and to push for genuine steps toward peace.”
The Vatican has not yet issued a formal response to Hezbollah’s appeal. However, the Pope’s itinerary includes meetings with senior Lebanese political figures, religious leaders from various faiths, and humanitarian organisations addressing the worsening conditions faced by displaced families and vulnerable communities. Vatican officials have indicated that the themes of peacebuilding, human dignity, and interfaith solidarity will shape the Pope’s engagements.
Hezbollah described the papal visit as an opportunity to refocus the world’s attention on the humanitarian fallout of the conflict, including the strain on Lebanon’s already fragile economy and infrastructure. The group said it hopes the Pope’s interactions will underscore the urgency of protecting civilians on all sides and promoting diplomatic solutions rooted in justice and mutual respect.
The Pope’s trip, his first to Lebanon since assuming office, is widely seen as a symbolic gesture of support for the country’s diverse religious landscape and an encouragement for national unity amid political and economic instability.
