Vatican envoy visits Lebanese church after priest killed in shelling

In March 2026, a Vatican envoy visited Qlayaa, Lebanon, following the death of priest Pierre al-Rahi. Authorities attributed al-Rahi's death to Israeli artillery shelling earlier in the week. The visit highlights the escalating hostilities between Israel and Lebanon. These hostilities have resulted in the deaths of nearly 700 Lebanese people. The envoy's visit underscores the Vatican's concern over the escalating conflict and its impact on the Lebanese population. The purpose of the visit was to show solidarity with the Lebanese church and community in the wake of the priest's death.