During his first apostolic journey to the Middle East, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed a position long supported by the Vatican: a Palestinian state is the only viable solution to the decades-long conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.
Speaking to journalists aboard a flight from Turkey to Lebanon, the first U.S.-born pontiff emphasized the need for a two-state framework and acknowledged that Israel currently rejects the proposal.
“We all know that at this time Israel still does not accept that solution, but we see it as the only solution,” Pope Leo said in Italian during an eight-minute press briefing.
Vatican Seeks Mediator Role
The pope stressed that the Vatican holds close ties with Israel while simultaneously working to serve as a neutral mediator between both sides.
“We are also friends with Israel, and we are seeking to be a mediating voice … that might help them close in on a solution with justice for everyone,” he added.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly opposed a Palestinian state, even as the United States — Israel’s most influential ally — has shown support for Palestinian independence. Background on U.S. foreign policy in the region can be found on the U.S. Department of State’s Middle East page.
Discussions With Turkey’s President
Pope Leo’s comments came shortly after his visit to Turkey, which marked his first overseas trip since his election in May as spiritual leader of the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church.
He met with Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan, discussing both the Israel-Palestine conflict and the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. According to the pope, Turkey’s geopolitical position gives it a “significant opportunity” to help move both conflicts toward meaningful peace efforts.
For further background on the Palestinian statehood question, readers can reference the historical overview provided by the United Nations.
Rising Criticism Over Gaza Violence
While Pope Leo often speaks in measured diplomatic language, he has become increasingly vocal about humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Earlier this year, he intensified criticism of Israel’s military campaign, calling for restraint and stronger protections for civilians caught in the conflict.
During his time in Turkey — a predominantly Muslim nation that also hosts the Ecumenical Patriarchate, spiritual home of the world’s Orthodox Christians — Leo praised the country’s example of religious coexistence.
“People of different religions are able to live in peace,” he said. “That is one example of what we should hope to see throughout the world.”
Continuing His Middle East Outreach
Pope Leo will remain in Lebanon until Tuesday before returning to Rome. His focus throughout the trip has centered on interfaith harmony, diplomacy, and addressing the growing number of global conflicts he says threaten humanity’s future.
