Pope Leo XIV’s recent journey to the Middle East concluded in Beirut, a city still reeling from a catastrophe. The six-day pilgrimage brought him face-to-face with the enduring scars of the 2020 port explosion, a blast that irrevocably altered the lives of hundreds of thousands.
The explosion, one of the largest non-nuclear detonations in history, claimed over 200 lives and left more than 300,000 people homeless. Yet, five years later, a full investigation into the cause – nearly three tons of improperly stored ammonium nitrate – remains unfinished, fueling widespread anger and protests.
Each month, on the fourth, families of the victims gather at the port, a silent, desperate plea for accountability. Pope Leo paid his respects with a moment of quiet prayer and the lighting of a lamp, a gesture of remembrance for those lost.
The weight of the past was palpable even within the walls of the Intercontinental Phoenicia Hotel. Shattered windows, a haunting reminder of the blast’s force, had only recently been repaired after the hotel reopened in 2023. A staff member recalled the terrifying moment, describing how the air was violently expelled from the building, replaced by a storm of glass and dust.
Accompanying the Pope was a group of journalists, known as the VAMPS – the Vatican Accredited Media Personnel – representing fifteen nations. Anticipation filled the hotel lobby as they prepared for the return flight to Rome, already strategizing questions for the Pope’s in-flight press conference.
Debate was lively, with questions ranging from the role of women in the Church to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Initial concerns that Pope Leo might avoid speaking to the press were eased when he appeared on the flight from Istanbul, ready to address difficult topics.
He reaffirmed the Vatican’s long-held support for a two-state solution in the Middle East, while also emphasizing, “Israel is our friend.” Pope Leo, six months into his papacy, demonstrated a growing confidence, delivering measured and diplomatic responses.
Throughout his visit, he skillfully navigated linguistic and cultural nuances, speaking in English, French, and even offering a few words in Arabic, consistently urging peace among Lebanon’s diverse factions. He particularly focused on the need for unity between authorities, religious groups, and the nation’s young people.
At a gathering with Lebanese youth, reminiscent of a modern-day Woodstock, he implored them to remain hopeful and resist the urge to emigrate. “Have hope, don’t leave, your country needs you!” he declared, a message resonating deeply with a nation facing immense challenges.
Nada Merhi, a volunteer who experienced the devastation of Lebanon’s 1975-1990 civil war as a child, expressed her unwavering love for her country despite the current economic and political turmoil. “We need concrete help, but above all we just want peace,” she pleaded, hoping the Pope would remember their plight.
Andre Sassine, a business owner, offered a glimmer of optimism, believing that peace would unlock economic prosperity. He challenged perceptions of internal conflict, stating that external influences and corruption were the true obstacles. He even suggested a potential alliance between the Pope and former President Trump, recognizing the connection through Trump’s daughter’s marriage to a Lebanese citizen.
“We Lebanese love America,” Sassine affirmed, “and we love this new pope born in America. Please help us find peace.” The sentiment echoed throughout the country – a desperate yearning for stability and a renewed hope ignited by the Pope’s visit.
