Twin Suicide Attacks in Algeria Coincide with Pope Leo XIV's Historic Visit
Two suicide bombers detonated explosives in Blida, a city near Algeria's capital Algiers, on April 13, 2026.
The attacks occurred as Pope Leo XIV began his historic visit to Algeria, the first ever by a pope to the country.
Authorities confirmed the deaths of the two bombers but have not reported any additional casualties.
The incidents took place in the afternoon and were described by a source familiar with the case as terrorist in nature.
Verified video footage showed the aftermath with two bodies lying in the street.
The timing of the attacks coincided with the pope's arrival, although no direct link between the bombings and the visit has been established.
The visit was conducted under tight security measures.
Algerian authorities have not officially commented on the attacks or confirmed any connection to the papal visit.
The African Union initially condemned the double attack but later retracted its statement, citing a lack of corroboration from official sources.
