During his visit to Algiers, Pope Leo XIV issued a stark warning to the international community, describing the Mediterranean and Sahara as “geographical and spiritual crossroads of immense significance” and urging that they not be allowed to become places where hope dies.

“Woe to us if we turn them into cemeteries where even hope perishes,” the Pontiff said, calling for collective responsibility in confronting the humanitarian tragedies unfolding across the region.

The Pope urged world leaders to tackle the root causes of suffering, calling for efforts to “free these immense basins of history and future from evil” and to build “oases of peace” through concrete action.

In one of his strongest remarks, he condemned those who profit from human suffering: “Those who speculate on human life commit illicit gains, for human dignity is inviolable.”

As part of his visit, Pope Leo XIV also toured the Great Mosque of Algiers, where he was welcomed by Rector Mohamed Mamoun Al Qasimi. Entering barefoot as a sign of respect, the Pope later held a private meeting with the rector in the presence of Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue.