hezbollah Appeals to Pope Leo to Condemn Israeli Aggression in Lebanon
Beirut,Lebanon – Hezbollah has issued a direct appeal to Pope Leo,urging him to reject what the group describes as ongoing Israeli aggression against Lebanon,as the pontiff prepares for a visit to the contry. The message, published Saturday on Hezbollah’s social media channels, comes amid heightened tensions and recent clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces.
The plea to Pope Leo underscores Hezbollah’s desire for international condemnation of Israel‘s actions and seeks to leverage the Pope’s upcoming visit – scheduled to begin Sunday – to amplify their message. Lebanon has long struggled with political instability and economic crisis, and the escalating conflict with Israel adds another layer of complexity to the nation’s challenges. The pope’s visit is intended to demonstrate solidarity with the Lebanese people and promote dialog, but Hezbollah hopes it will also translate into concrete pressure on Israel.
Hezbollah’s statement affirmed the group’s commitment to “coexistence” within lebanon, while simultaneously reiterating its dedication to defending the country against perceived threats. The message specifically highlighted the group’s resolve to ”stand with our army and people to confront any aggression and occupation of our land and country,” labeling Israel’s actions in Lebanon as “unacceptable sustained aggression.”
“We rely on His Majesty’s stance in rejecting the injustice and aggression experienced by our Lebanese nation at the hands of the Zionist invaders and their supporters,” the statement continued, according to the AFP news agency.
The appeal follows remarks by Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem on Friday, where he welcomed Pope Leo’s visit and noted the group’s adherence to a november 2024 ceasefire. Qassem also called for an end to ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Pope Leo is expected to arrive in Lebanon on Sunday for a three-day trip, including an open-air mass in Beirut anticipated to draw approximately 120,000 attendees, and an interfaith meeting in the capital.