Beirut: Pope Leo XIV expressed optimism about the possibilities for unity, partnership, reconciliation, and peace in the Middle East despite numerous challenges. His statements were made during a significant assembly in central Beirut, attended by over 300 religious figures. The event featured speeches from the heads of Lebanon's Christian and Islamic sects and was complemented by musical performances from the Sistema Beirut Chants choir, the Islamic Orphanage chorus, and the Imam al-Sadr Foundation.

According to Anadolu Agency, the pontiff urged the attendees to become "builders of peace," encouraging them to confront intolerance, overcome violence, and eliminate exclusion to pave the way toward justice. He highlighted that, even in times when coexistence seems unattainable, the people of Lebanon exemplify how fear, distrust, and prejudice can be overcome in favor of unity, reconciliation, and peace.

The gathering began with an official welcome from the Syriac Catholic Patriarch, Ignatius Joseph III Younan, followed by a Gospel recitation in the Byzantine rite and a Qur'an reading. Christian clergy delivered several speeches before Lebanon's Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian welcomed Pope Leo, emphasizing Lebanon's role as a "land of message" and a "guardian of peace and security worldwide."

Sheikh Ali al-Khatib, deputy head of the Higher Islamic Shia Council, expressed a hope that Lebanon's cause would be supported on the global stage, reinforcing the sentiment that the nation is committed to peace rather than conflict. Prior to the event, large crowds gathered to greet Pope Leo as his motorcade traveled from the Apostolic Nunciature in northern Beirut to Martyrs' Square.

Pope Leo's visit to Lebanon is part of a three-day trip, following a similar visit to Trkiye.