Pope Francis Stable After Severe Respiratory Crisis, Prognosis Remains Guarded

The 88-year-old pontiff continues treatment for bilateral pneumonia in Rome's Gemelli Hospital while addressing global conflicts in a written Sunday message.

Pope Francis experienced a severe bronchospasm on Friday, requiring oxygen support, but is now reported to be stable, though not out of danger.
Doctors describe his condition as complex, with cautious optimism but no clear timeline for discharge from the hospital after 16 days of treatment.
The Vatican has emphasized transparency about his health, noting that the Pope is alert, mobile with assistance, and continuing to eat and pray.
In a written Sunday message, Francis called for peace in conflict regions, including Ukraine, Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and Myanmar, describing war as 'even more absurd' from his hospital room.
Speculation about a potential resignation has been dismissed by Vatican officials, with no indications of immediate changes to his leadership despite upcoming significant events such as Easter and the Holy Year 2025.

Augsburger Allgemeine