Pope Francis hospitalized with respiratory infection ahead of Holy Week.

Pope Francis has been hospitalized in Rome after experiencing breathing difficulties. The Vatican initially claimed the visit was for a previously scheduled check-up, but later confirmed that the Pope is suffering from a respiratory infection and will remain in the hospital for a few days. The Pope has a history of diverticulitis, a condition that can infect or inflame the colon, and underwent surgery for it in 2021. He is due to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass this weekend.