In a clear and direct statement, Pope Leo has reiterated the Vatican's long-standing diplomatic position, declaring that a two-state solution is the only possible resolution to the enduring conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people. The pontiff made his remarks during an in-flight press conference on Sunday, November 30, while traveling from Turkey to Lebanon.
Diplomatic Push for a Two-State Solution
The Pope, speaking in Italian to journalists aboard the papal plane, acknowledged that Israel currently rejects the idea of an independent Palestinian state. However, he was unequivocal in his support for the framework. "We all know that at this time Israel still does not accept that solution, but we see it as the only solution," stated Leo, who is the first American to hold the papacy. He emphasized the Vatican's role as a potential mediator, saying, "We are also friends with Israel and we are seeking to be a mediating voice between the two parties that might help them close in on a solution with justice for everyone."
This reaffirmation comes at a sensitive time, as even Israel's closest ally, the United States, has indicated support for Palestinian independence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recently doubled down on his opposition to a sovereign Palestinian state.
Sharpened Criticism and Broader Diplomacy
The eight-minute press conference, focused on his visit to Turkey from Thursday to Sunday, also touched on other global crises. Pope Leo revealed he discussed both the Israel-Palestine and Ukraine-Russia conflicts with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, noting that Turkey has a significant role to play in helping to end both wars.
Notably, the Pope, who typically employs careful diplomatic language, has recently ramped up his criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza. This shift marks a more pointed stance from the Holy See on the conduct of the war.
Turkey Praised as a Model of Coexistence
During his first overseas trip since his election in May as leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics, Pope Leo visited Turkey, a predominantly Muslim nation that is also the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians. He held up the country as an example for the world. "People of different religions are able to live in peace," the Pope observed. "That is one example of what I think we all would be looking for throughout the world."
Earlier in his Turkish visit, he warned that humanity's future is jeopardized by the unprecedented number of bloody conflicts worldwide and condemned any violence carried out in the name of religion.
The pontiff's journey continued to Lebanon, where he will stay until Tuesday before returning to Rome. His comments underscore the Vatican's ongoing commitment to a specific and justice-oriented diplomatic path in one of the world's most intractable disputes.
