Pope Leo follows papal tradition with Blue Mosque visit

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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog in light of his ongoing corruption trial, which includes serious allegations of bribery and fraud. Netanyahu argues that the trial is obstructing his ability to govern effectively and asserts that a pardon would benefit Israel. However, under Israeli law, the president cannot grant pardons to individuals who have not been convicted of a crime.

The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) has announced that it will cease further indirect talks with Turkey until the release of its founder, Abdullah Ocalan, from imprisonment. A senior commander emphasized that the peace process, which has seen some compliance from the PKK since its inception last year, is at risk of halting due to this demand.

Top officials from the Trump administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, are convening with Ukrainian negotiators in Florida this weekend. This meeting follows the resignation of Ukraine's chief negotiator, Andrii Yermak, amid an anti-corruption investigation, highlighting the urgency of the discussions.

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 arrived in Lebanon to deliver a message of hope amid ongoing crises and deep sectarian divisions, urging both political leaders and citizens to pursue reconciliation. His visit comes at a time when the nation is grappling with significant challenges, including economic instability and political fragmentation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described a recent meeting with Ukrainian officials in Florida as 'very productive,' focusing on efforts to establish a peace framework to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. Despite the positive tone, Rubio acknowledged that significant work remains to achieve a comprehensive peace deal. Meanwhile, violence continues in Ukraine, highlighted by a recent drone attack near Kyiv that resulted in casualties.

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.