Vatican City: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been selected as the next pope, marking a historic moment as the first American pontiff in history. Cardinal Robert Prevost will be known as Pope Leo XIV.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the 69-year-old pontiff from Chicago has dedicated much of his career to missionary work in South America and has served as a bishop in Peru. In his inaugural address from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on Thursday, May 8, 2025, Pope Leo XIV articulated his vision for the Catholic Church as one that 'builds bridges' and engages in dialogue. "We have to seek together to be a missionary church. A church that builds bridges and dialogue," he emphasized.

During his address, the new pope also expressed admiration for his predecessor, Pope Francis, and concluded by leading the assembled crowd in prayer. Robert Francis Prevost's ecclesiastical journey saw him promoted to archbishop in 2023 and later elevated to cardinal in 2024.

Pope Leo XIV assumes a significant role on the global stage, with responsibilities that include ensuring religion does not become a source of division. His papacy will contend with ongoing international conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan, as well as politically charged issues such as migration, the climate crisis, religious freedom, and human rights.