Anna Hartz
Ex-Pope Francis Was Target of ISIS Plot During Trieste Visit
Faith leaders often face great admiration, but they also live under constant threat.
Pope Francis, who became a symbol of humility and reform for the Catholic Church, was no exception.
Even after stepping down, he remained a target for extremist groups. Italian authorities have now revealed details of a disturbing plot that aimed to take his life.
Turkish Man Arrested
On Friday, police in Italy announced the arrest of a man linked to the Islamic State, according to Digi24.
The suspect, 46-year-old Hasan Uzun, is part of the Turkish branch of the terrorist organization.
Investigators believe he was involved in planning an assassination attempt on former Pope Francis during a visit to Trieste in July 2024.
Held in Isolation
Uzun was captured after a joint investigation that involved several countries. He had previously been detained in the Netherlands before being extradited to Italy.
After his transfer, he spent a short time in prison in Milan before being moved to Trieste, a port city close to Slovenia. Italian police say he is now being held in isolation.
Alarm Bells Ringing
The plan was reportedly connected to ISIS Khorasan, a group known for violent attacks in Afghanistan and beyond.
Investigators believe the Turkish network Uzun belonged to was working with this branch.
The plot raised alarm because Trieste was preparing to host Pope Francis during his visit last year.
Security was already tight, but the new findings show how real the danger had been.
A Serious Threat
Italian authorities have not revealed all the details of the investigation. They did confirm, however, that the threat was serious enough to trigger international cooperation.
The case shows how extremist groups continue to view religious leaders as symbolic targets.
Ongoing Investigation
His visits around the world often drew large crowds, making security a constant challenge.
The investigation in Trieste is still ongoing. Italian police say more arrests could follow as they work to uncover the full network behind the assassination attempt.
