British Intelligence, Iraqi Police Foiled Assassination Plot Against Me in 2021 — Pope Francis
Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City, has revealed that a double suicide bombing plot targeting him during his historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 was thwarted by British intelligence and Iraqi police.
The revelation comes from his forthcoming autobiography, Spera (Hope), co-authored with Italian writer Carlo Musso, excerpts of which were published by Corriere della Sera on Tuesday to mark the Pope’s 88th birthday.
The visit to Iraq, a first-ever papal trip to the country, was fraught with security concerns due to ongoing regional instability and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these risks, Pope Francis insisted on undertaking the trip as a “pilgrim of peace,” emphasizing the Vatican’s dedication to interfaith dialogue and support for persecuted Christian communities.
During the three-day journey across six cities, including Baghdad, Mosul, and Erbil, security forces intercepted a woman near Mosul who planned to detonate an explosive device. Simultaneously, a truck reportedly speeding toward the area with another bomb was also intercepted.
In Spera (Hope), Pope Francis recounted asking what happened to the would-be attackers after their plans were thwarted. The commander laconically replied, “They’re no longer here,” indicating that the threat had been neutralized. Reflecting on the incident, the Pope remarked, “Even this is the poisonous fruit of war.”
The trip, which featured meetings with Iraqi leaders, visits to holy sites, and public masses in cities ravaged by the Islamic State, symbolized hope and resilience for a nation recovering from years of war and devastation.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis’ steadfast decision to proceed with the visit despite severe risks highlighted his unwavering commitment to fostering peace and reconciliation in the Middle East.
His autobiography, Spera (Hope), set to be released in January, is expected to provide deeper insights into the Pope’s experiences, reflections, and his journey of faith and leadership in the face of adversity.
