Pope Leo met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican in a significant diplomatic encounter aimed at promoting peace and dialogue in the Middle East. The meeting underscored the Vatican’s continued support for a two-state solution and its call for renewed efforts to end the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
According to Vatican officials, the two leaders discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank, emphasizing the need for immediate relief for civilians affected by the ongoing violence. Pope Leo reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to supporting all peace initiatives rooted in justice, mutual respect, and the protection of human dignity.
President Abbas expressed gratitude for the Vatican’s moral stance and humanitarian assistance, noting the Holy See’s consistent advocacy for Palestinian rights and international law. He also briefed the Pope on recent developments in the region and the urgent need for international intervention to prevent further escalation.
The Vatican statement highlighted the “deep concern” over the continued loss of innocent lives and called for the restoration of dialogue between Israeli and Palestinian leaders. Both sides agreed that religious and political leaders have a shared responsibility to foster coexistence and understanding.
Observers see the meeting as part of the Vatican’s broader diplomatic efforts to mediate peace in regions facing protracted conflict. Pope Leo’s leadership has placed strong emphasis on humanitarian outreach and reconciliation among divided communities.
The encounter concluded with an exchange of symbolic gifts representing peace and hope. The Pope expressed his personal prayers for the Palestinian people and the realization of a “just and lasting peace” in the Holy Land.
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