AHRC Welcomes Pope Leo XIV’s Visit to Lebanon, Expresses Hope for Peace in Lebanon and the Region

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) joins the Lebanese people and all peace-loving communities worldwide in welcoming Pope Leo XIV’s historic visit to Lebanon during this time of regional turmoil.

The Pope’s visit comes amidst ongoing Israeli violations of the ceasefire reached on November 27, 2024, with more than 10,000 breaches documented by UNIFIL and Lebanese officials within one year! The Pope’s visit highlights the urgency of peace and stability in the region.

This marks Pope Leo’s first visit to the Middle East, and Lebanon in particular, arriving at a moment of heightened tension as threats of widened Israeli military attacks loom over Lebanon. These threats aim to target wide areas across Lebanon, extending beyond the South.

During his visit, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of Lebanon’s unity and stability, calling for lasting peace in the region. Despite widespread despair and anxiety over the possibility of war, the Lebanese people welcomed the Pope with unity, appealing for his support during these most challenging times.

The Pope also reaffirmed his principled stance on the Palestinian issue, declaring that a two-state solution remains the only viable path to peace. His call for an end to war and conflict resonated deeply with the people of Lebanon and the broader Middle East.

AHRC-USA hopes that the Pope’s visit will serve as a catalyst for peace, helping Lebanon avoid further aggression from Israel and sparing innocent lives from more devastation inflicted by the extremist Netanyahu government whose program is ever more land grabs and open- ended wars.

“Lebanese from all religious backgrounds welcomed the visit of Pope Leo, it was impressive,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “Lebanon is a troubled land that is eager for peace and justice, and the visit of Pope Leo put the international spotlight on Lebanon, a country that has been victimized by Israel for many years,” added Hamad. “The Pope does not have an army but has great moral authority and we hope that powerful countries listen to the Pope’s call for peace and justice,” concluded Hamad.