Pope Leo XIV has expressed profound sorrow over the death of a Maronite Catholic priest killed during an Israeli bombardment in southern Lebanon, as violence continues to affect Christian communities in the region.
The priest, Father Pierre El Raii, was killed on March 9, 2026, in the Christian village of Al Qlayaa, located in the Marjayoun District. Reports say an Israeli strike first hit a house in the village, prompting the priest and others to rush to help those trapped inside. As they tried to assist the victims, a second strike followed, fatally wounding the priest and injuring several others.
In a message released by the Holy See, the Pope expressed “profound sorrow” for the victims of recent bombings in the Middle East. He remembered innocent civilians, including children, and those who risked their lives to help others—among them Father Pierre, who died while serving his community.
Local officials confirmed several residents were also wounded. The mayor of Al-Qlayaa said the attack involved two strikes, the second occurring as rescuers attempted to reach the victims. Pope Leo XIV renewed his call for prayers and for an end to the violence, entrusting the victims to God’s mercy and urging renewed efforts toward peace.