Pope Leo visits a wounded Lebanon in his first trip to the Middle East

Pope Leo XIV prays in front of the tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf at the Monastery of Saint Maroun, in Annaya, Lebanon, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025.

Pope Leo XIV is on his first visit to Lebanon. He arrives at a pivotal time for the country, buffeted by conflict with Israel and a devastating economic crisis.

(Image credit: Domenico Stinellis)