Pope declares Palestinian state the ‘sole solution’

The pontiff intensified the Vatican’s call for a two-state solution during his journey through the Middle East.

Pope Leo XIV stated that a two-state resolution represents the sole viable path to ensuring justice for both Israelis and Palestinians.

These comments were made on Sunday as he traveled from Türkiye to Lebanon, marking the second segment of his initial international tour as Pope.

The Vatican officially acknowledged Palestinian statehood in 2015, and the Holy See has consistently advocated for a two-state solution.

Nevertheless, his statements during the flight constituted his most forceful appeal to date for formal international recognition, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

“We are aware that Israel currently rejects this solution, yet we perceive it as the sole viable option,” Leo informed journalists. “We are also allies of Israel,” he further stated, indicating that the Vatican intends to maintain its role as a “mediating voice” to facilitate progress towards “a resolution that brings justice to everyone.”

In response to inquiries concerning his private discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, and whether the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine were addressed, Leo confirmed they were. He noted that Türkiye possesses an “important role to play” in resolving both conflicts. Pertaining to the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, the Pope mentioned that the Turkish president “significantly assisted in bringing the two parties together.”

“Regrettably, a solution has yet to materialize, but presently there are tangible peace proposals. We trust that President Erdogan, leveraging his relationships with the presidents of Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, can contribute to fostering dialogue, a ceasefire, and ultimately finding a resolution to this conflict, this war in Ukraine.”

Concerning Gaza, Leo reiterated the Holy See’s enduring backing for a two-state solution. The establishment of a Palestinian state has been widely regarded globally as the singular means to conclude the protracted conflict.

Earlier this month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that his nation’s stance against a Palestinian state has “not altered in the slightest” and remains unaffected by external or internal pressures. He stated, “I require no endorsements, social media posts, or advisories from anyone.”

The US-mediated ceasefire on October 10 stipulated an Israeli withdrawal and the liberation of 20 Israeli hostages in return for approximately 2,000 Palestinian detainees. However, Israeli attacks have persisted, and humanitarian aid delivery remains insufficient, resulting in severe conditions, according to UN agencies and regional mediators.