PKK urges Turkey to free Ocalan, warns peace process will halt

Pope Leo XIV has called on Lebanese political and religious leaders to prioritize peace during his visit to Lebanon, a country currently facing Israeli airstrikes and ongoing sectarian tensions. This appeal comes as part of his first overseas trip, following a visit to Turkey, where he highlighted the global risks posed by escalating conflicts.

Pope Leo XIV visited Istanbul's Blue Mosque on Saturday, marking a significant moment as he became the first Catholic leader to attend a Muslim place of worship. This visit is part of his inaugural international trip to Turkey, which aims to promote peace and unity amid regional tensions. Despite the historical significance, the visit faced backlash from a small nationalist group, with only 40 protesters present in a city of 16 million.

Two oil tankers linked to Russia were rocked by mystery blasts off the coast of Turkey, highlighting the ongoing challenges Moscow faces in circumventing Western sanctions on its oil trade. These vessels are part of a so-called shadow fleet that Russia has utilized to continue its oil exports despite international restrictions.

Pope Leo XIV has commenced his first foreign trip as pontiff with a visit to Turkey, where he explored the ruins of a basilica believed to have hosted a significant early Christian council. This visit coincides with the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, underscoring its historical and religious importance.

Pope Leo XIV visited the historic site of the First Council of Nicaea in Turkey, urging Christians and all faiths to reject violence in the name of religion. This visit marks the second day of his inaugural overseas trip, emphasizing a message of unity and peace.

Pope Leo XIV is set to join the leader of the Orthodox Christians in Turkey to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, one of the early Church's pivotal gatherings. This event marks a significant moment during his inaugural international trip, emphasizing unity among Christian denominations.

The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has announced its dissolution and the end of its armed struggle with Turkey, leading to a sense of hope for peace among the population of Diyarbakir, a Kurdish city in southeastern Turkey. This conflict has persisted for 40 years, resulting in the loss of approximately 40,000 lives, and the community is now contemplating the conditions necessary for a lasting peace.

Pope Leo XIV commemorated the 1,700th anniversary of the Nicaean Creed at its historic site in Turkey, joining Orthodox patriarchs in a ceremony that emphasizes Christian unity. This visit marks the second day of his inaugural international trip, highlighting the significance of the creed as a central statement of Christian belief.