Overview

• Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14 for double pneumonia, experienced a respiratory crisis on Friday involving bronchospasms and vomiting.
• The Vatican reports that the pope has been stable since the crisis, describing his condition as 'complex' with a reserved prognosis.
• Doctors indicate they need 24 to 48 hours to assess the full impact of the recent respiratory episode on his overall health.
• The pontiff has shown signs of alertness, continuing to pray and read, but will miss the March 5 Ash Wednesday celebrations, a key event in the Catholic calendar.
• This is the pope's fourth and longest hospitalization since 2021, raising questions about his ability to continue his duties and prompting speculation about a potential resignation.