Pope Leo tours Istanbul’s Blue Mosque during Turkiye trip

Pope Leo XIV has embarked on his first foreign trip to Turkey, where he aims to promote peace and unity amid regional tensions. His visit includes significant engagements, such as attending Istanbul's Blue Mosque, marking the first time a pope has participated in a Muslim place of worship since his papacy began in May.

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 Beirut, where he called for an end to violence and emphasized the need for a two-state solution to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict. His presence drew large crowds, reflecting a desire for peace and interfaith understanding in a region marked by longstanding tensions.

A devastating fire in a Hong Kong apartment complex resulted in at least 148 fatalities, marking one of the city's deadliest incidents in recent history. The blaze, which spread rapidly due to external scaffolding, has left many individuals missing and raised concerns about building safety regulations.

Pope Leo XIV visited the Blue Mosque in Istanbul during his inaugural international trip to Turkiye, which also includes a visit to Lebanon. This significant event marks the first time a pope has attended a Muslim place of worship since his papacy began in May.

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.

Pope Leo XIV visited Istanbul's Blue Mosque, marking his first attendance at a Muslim place of worship since becoming pope in May. This visit is part of his inaugural international trip to Turkey, which aims to promote peace and unity amid regional tensions.

Pope Leo XIV's visit to Turkiye marks a significant moment for minority communities, who express appreciation for the visibility and engagement with the state during this historic occasion. The pontiff's presence is seen as a step towards fostering dialogue and understanding in a region marked by diversity.