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Assassin of Pope John Paul II Removed Before Visit

11/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mehmet Ali Agca, who attacked Pope John Paul II in 1981, was removed from Iznik ahead of Pope Leo XIV's visit.
He expressed a desire to meet the pope briefly.
He was convicted for the assassination attempt and released in 2010 after 29 years.
During a 1983 visit, John Paul II forgave him but did not disclose his motives.

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Story summary

Mehmet Ali Agca, who attacked Pope John Paul II in 1981, was removed from Iznik ahead of Pope Leo XIV's visit.
He expressed a desire to meet the pope briefly.
He was convicted for the assassination attempt and released in 2010 after 29 years.
During a 1983 visit, John Paul II forgave him but did not disclose his motives.