Vatican steps up security measures

Deutsche Presse Agentur
Published: Saturday September 16, 2006

Rome- The Vatican has stepped up security following Pope Benedict XVI's recent comments about Islam, state-run Italian television reported Saturday. Tighter controls were expected at the pope's traditional Sunday Angelus prayer in his Castel Gandolofo summer residence near Rome.

There had been threats against the pope's life, the reports said without giving further details.

Italian secret services also pointed to possible dangers for Italian soldiers serving overseas.

Italy has troops stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan and Lebanon.

© 2006 DPA - Deutsche Presse-Agenteur