By NICOLE WINFIELD, AOMAR OUALI and PAOLO SANTALUCIA Associated Press
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.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has hosted a monthly Christian prayer and worship service at the Pentagon, the first since the Iran war began. He quoted warlike Scripture and prayed in Jesus' name. He read a prayer he said was shared with troops who captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. It asked for "overwhelming violence" against enemies. Government leaders often use broad religious language, but critics say Hegseth's specific evangelical framing feels new for his role. On Monday, Americans United for Separation of Church and State sued to obtain records about the Pentagon Christian services. Hegseth also announced chaplain reforms and cuts to the military's recognized religious affiliations.