Following escalating hostilities, India retaliated against Pakistan, targeting air defense systems and other strategic sites after thwarting missile and drone attacks on Indian military bases and civilian areas. Operation Sindoor is underway, with India responding to Pakistan’s aggression with targeted strikes and forward deployments. The international community watches as tensions rise between the two nations.

Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami said Pakistan chose to escalate the matter and India would respond “proportionally” if Islamabad retaliates.

The following is the full first speech of Pope Leo XIV, given from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica shortly after his election as the new pope and leader of the Catholic Church.