Pope Francis has revealed he survived two assassination attempts during his historic trip to Iraq, which took place from March 5 to 8, 2021. This startling disclosure came from excerpts of his upcoming autobiography, entitled Spera (Hope), shared by Italian media.
According to the Pope, British intelligence alerted authorities about two would-be attackers targeting the papal visit. "A woman packed with explosives, a young suicide bomber, was heading toward Mosul to blow herself up during the papal visit," he recounts in his memoir, emphasizing the imminent danger. He added, "And a van had also set off at great speed with the same intention." Fortunately, the attackers were intercepted and killed by Iraqi police.
The Pope described the intense pressure surrounding the visit, admitting, "Almost everyone advised me against this trip, but I wanted to face it head-on. I felt I had to do it." It was the first time any Pope had made such a visit to Iraq, particularly significant due to the country’s recent history marked by sectarian violence and extremist violence.
This exclusive autobiographical account sheds light on the security measures leading to the Pope’s visit to Iraq, which included visits to sites like Baghdad, Najaf, Qaraqosh, and historic Mosul—area ravaged by the Islamic State and previously under their control. Today, the Christian community, once thriving, has dramatically diminished as they faced severe persecution from extremist groups.
Despite these challenges, the visit was showered with moments of genuine interfaith dialogue. Among the significant encounters was the Pope’s meeting with Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. Here, the Pope emphasized the warmth and cooperation between Christians and Muslims, remarking on projects undertaken by young Muslim volunteers assisting churches' repair and rebuilding efforts. His words underscored the hope for future coexistence, breaking down the walls of division and distrust.
During the autobiography's exploration of these facets, the theme of hope prevails as Pope Francis addresses the youth of Iraq and the entire world suffering from violence and persecution. He stated, "I think of the young Muslim volunteers of Mosul, who helped to repair churches and monasteries, building fraternal friendships on the rubble of hatred."
The Pope’s interviews reveal stark memories of his visit, particularly his discussions with security officials afterward, one of whom reportedly said about the failed attackers, "They are no more." This terse comment illustrated the deadly seriousness of the abdicated threats during such fragile circumstances.
Interestingly, calls for peace came amid the reflections on possible dire consequences had the attempts succeeded. A successful assassination would not only have thrown the Catholic Church—the home of over 1.3 billion members—into turmoil over electing a successor but also could have sparked increased religious tensions worldwide. Many historians and political analysts considered the significance of the popes' travels during such vulnerable times pivotal for fostering peace across religious lines.
Looking back at the continued security risks, both Iraqi authorities and international observers remain alert to the potential resurgence of violence orchestrated by jihadist groups. This previous attack coincides with broader patterns following the defeat of ISIS, now relegated to sporadic and isolated acts of terrorism.
Nevertheless, the potent messaging of Pope Francis' motives strikes each attempt as another step toward reconciliation on the long road to peace. The autobiography’s publication date is planned for mid-January, set to reach over 80 countries. This book will mark the first time a Pope has written such extensive personal reflections, symbolizing the Pope’s bold and transformative leadership style.
Reflecting on what’s next, as the Pope and the Catholic Church strive to build lasting bridges of hope within the world’s broken terrains, his Iraq visit will undoubtedly be remembered not just for its perilous threats but as another chapter showcasing interfaith compassion and resilient unity among diverse communities.
