Algeria Africa Pope

Pope Leo XIV arrives at Maqam Echahid Martyrs' Monument in Algiers, Monday, April 13, 2026, on the first day of an 11-day apostolic journey to Africa.

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Pope starts Africa tour in Algeria and calls for peace against Iran war's backdrop

Pope starts Africa tour in Algeria and calls for peace against Iran war's backdrop

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Algeria for a first-ever papal visit, calling for peace amid the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. His 11-day tour includes four African nations, promoting Christian-Muslim coexistence. The trip begins with a backdrop of tension between Leo and U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized Leo's papacy. Leo emphasized peace and reconciliation, rooted in the Gospel. In Algiers, he visited a monument honoring those who died in the country's independence struggle. Leo's message focuses on justice and dignity, urging forgiveness. He later plans to visit the Great Mosque and Our Lady of Africa basilica.