Pope Francis Hospitalized as Conclave Preparations Intensify

Pope Francis remains hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital due to severe breathing difficulties, with the Vatican confirming that his condition is stable. As discussions about the future leadership of the Catholic Church intensify, speculation about a potential papal conclave has emerged, should the Pope resign or pass away. Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, is viewed as a leading candidate for succession, though his involvement in the controversial London property scandal raises concerns among some. If convened, the conclave will include 138 cardinals under 80, including four from India, highlighting the growing influence of Indian cardinals in papal elections. The conclave process requires secrecy and involves multiple voting rounds, with black smoke indicating an inconclusive vote and white smoke signaling the election of a new pope. The urgency surrounding these discussions reflects the Church's need for continuity amidst the Pope's health crisis.