A tragic fighter jet crash in Bangladesh has claimed at least 31 lives, many of them students, prompting heartfelt prayers and condolences from Pope Leo to the grieving nation.
The devastating accident occurred on Monday in Dhaka’s Uttara neighborhood, when an F-7 BGI fighter jet belonging to the Bangladesh Air Force crashed into the Milestone School and College campus, setting part of the building ablaze. The two-story structure was filled with students at the time of the crash. The Bangladeshi military reported that 171 people were injured—most of them students—and many suffered burns. The pilot was also among the dead.
In a telegram sent Tuesday, Pope Leo expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, saying he was “deeply saddened by the loss of life caused by a plane crash in Bangladesh.” The Pope’s message, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, continued: “He entrusts the deceased to the merciful love of the Almighty,” and offers prayers “that their families and friends may be consoled in their grief, and for the healing and comfort of the injured,” according to Vatican News.
This crash is one of the deadliest aviation incidents in Dhaka in recent decades. The Bangladeshi military stated the aircraft took off from Air Force Base A.K. Khandaker in the Kurmitola area at 1:06 p.m. before crashing shortly thereafter. Officials indicated the pilot attempted to avoid heavily populated zones, but the jet ultimately hit the school building. A “technical malfunction” is suspected as the cause, and a high-level Air Force committee has been formed to investigate.
Pope Leo concluded his message by invoking “the divine blessings of peace and strength” upon the entire school community and all those affected by the tragedy, according to the Holy See’s telegram.
In the wake of such horror and loss, the Pope’s spiritual support serves as a reminder of the Church’s mission to console the sorrowful and lift the suffering in prayer. As Bangladesh begins to mourn and recover, the universal Church joins in prayer for the victims, their families, and the wounded—entrusting all to the mercy and healing power of God.
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