An intense online debate has been sparked by a video of the appearance of the new Pope Leo IV’ in Rome, with social media users speculating that he deliberately ignored a person carrying a colourful flag – possibly an LGBTI flag – as he entered the Paul VI Hall in the Vatican.

The incident was recorded on Monday, May 12, during the Pontiff’s audience with 6,000 media representatives. As the Pope walked through the rows of the audience, waving and exchanging handshakes.

The quote immediately went viral, sparking interpretation and controversy. Many users considered it to be a flag for the LGBTQ+ movement and described the Pope’s action as a “deliberate disregard”.

Others, however, noted that the flag shown in the shot is not Pride but “PACE”, the well-known Italian pacifist flag with a rainbow and the word “peace”, which has been in use since 1961. The Holy See has not officially commented on the video or speculation about it.

During his speech, Pope Leo IV referred to freedom of the press and called for the release of imprisoned journalists around the world. He declared the Church’s support for the “battle for truth” and adopted a unifying tone, condemning the mocking and divisive rhetoric.

In closing, he invoked words of his predecessor, Pope Francis: “Disarm communication from all prejudice and hatred… Listen to the voices of the weak, of those who have no voice. Let us disarm words, to help disarm the world,” he said.