General view of the Jounieh bay, as seen from Ghosta. (Credit: Philippe Hage Boutros / L'Orient-Le Jour)
The governor of Mount Lebanon has banned paragliding in the governorate for the duration of Pope Leo XIV’s visit, the state-run National News Agency reported Saturday.
Governor Mohammad Makkawi issued Decision No. 2025/334 ordering a three-day suspension of the activity on Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and Dec. 2 to ensure public safety and maintain security during the papal visit. The agency published an official copy of the decision.
The order instructs the Internal Security Forces to strictly enforce the ban and take legal action against violators. Authorities urged residents and visitors to comply “to avoid penalties and ensure the smooth conduct of events related to the papal visit.”
Pope Leo XIV is expected to arrive in Lebanon on Sunday, Nov. 30, for a three-day trip focused on delivering a message of peace and unity to Lebanon and the wider Middle East.
Events during the visit will take place in several locations within Mount Lebanon, including the Maronite Patriarchate, where the pope will meet members of the clergy and regional youth, and the Saint Maron Monastery, where he is scheduled to pray Monday at the tomb of Saint Charbel.
