London(The COW News Digital)Pope Leo has reaffirmed the Vatican’s long-standing support for a two-state solution, declaring that an independent Palestinian state remains the only viable path to resolving the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Speaking to journalists aboard his flight from Türkiye to Lebanon, the spiritual leader of the global Catholic community stressed that peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without recognizing the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
During the in-flight press briefing, Pope Leo noted that the Roman Catholic Church has consistently backed the two-state formula for many years. He reminded reporters that the Holy See formally recognized the State of Palestine in 2015, reflecting the Church’s commitment to a fair and lasting settlement. “We all know that Israel does not accept a two-state solution,” he said. “But for us, it remains the only solution capable of ending this conflict and ensuring dignity for both peoples.”
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Pope Leo emphasized that the Vatican’s position is grounded in moral responsibility, humanitarian principles, and global stability. He expressed deep concern over the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza and the West Bank, where thousands of civilians continue to face displacement, insecurity, and restricted access to basic necessities. He urged the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts, protect civilian lives, and press all parties toward meaningful negotiations.
The pontiff also called attention to the need for guarantees of safety for religious sites in the region, which hold profound significance for Christians, Muslims, and Jews alike. He underscored that lasting peace is impossible without mutual respect, coexistence, and justice rooted in international law.
Pope Leo’s remarks come at a time of heightened regional tensions and increased global pressure on Israel to reconsider its resistance to the two-state approach. His comments are expected to resonate strongly within diplomatic circles, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, where calls for a ceasefire and renewed peace talks have intensified.
As he concluded his conversation with journalists, Pope Leo reiterated that the Church will continue to advocate for peace, human rights, and the protection of vulnerable communities. “Our moral duty is to stand with justice,” he said. “A free Palestinian state is not only a political necessity—it is a humanitarian imperative.”
