Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Bangkok Post
Bangkok Post
World

Pope defends migrants at Mediterranean island frontier

Pope Leo joins a migrant family at the “Porta d’Europa” memorial on the island of Lampedusa, a key entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea, during a pastoral visit on July 4, 2026. (Photo: AFP)

LAMPEDUSA, Italy - Pope Leo XIV on Saturday visited Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants risking the perilous crossing from Africa, in a stark message to US and EU leaders.

The Catholic Church’s first US pope, who has clashed with the administration of President Donald Trump over its treatment of migrants, is marking July 4, the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence, on a migration frontline.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.