Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. During the audience, the Pope commented on the tragic situation in Gaza and stressed the need to “secure a future for the Palestinian people,” calling the two-state solution “the only way out of the ongoing war,” Aleteia.org reported.
Pope Leo XIV received in an audience at the Vatican the President of the State of Israel, Yitzhak Herzog. The President then met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
The main focus of the talks was on “the numerous conflicts in the Middle East,” with a particular emphasis on Gaza. The Holy See expressed hope for a “swift resumption of the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations“, calling for “bold decisions“ and international support to secure the release of hostages, reach an agreement “as a matter of urgency“ on a permanent ceasefire and ensure humanitarian access.
The parties discussed “how to secure a future for the Palestinian people, as well as peace and stability in the region“, with the Holy See reaffirming that a two-state solution is the only viable way out of the current war. The talks also touched on the West Bank, the “important” question of Jerusalem and the place of Christian communities in the Middle East.
Herzog thanked the pope for his “warm welcome“ and for his leadership in promoting peace. Without mentioning Gaza directly, he called the release of the Israeli hostages “a first substantial step towards a better future for the entire region“ and said: “Israel longs for the day when the peoples of the Middle East will live together in peace, partnership and hope.“
He added that Israel is committed and determined to ensure the “security and well-being“ of Christians in the Holy Land and throughout the region.