Pope Meets Palestinian Leader Abbas, Pushes For Two-State Solution Amid Gaza Crisis

Pope Leo XIV met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican on Thursday, urging renewed efforts toward a two-state solution as “the only path to end the conflict” between Israel and Palestine.

The hour-long meeting, described by the Holy See as “cordial,” centered on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need to deliver aid following the U.S.-brokered ceasefire that paused fighting after two years of war triggered by Hamas’ October 2023 terror attack on Israel.

Pope Leo XIV met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for the first time on Thursday. The two discussed the urgent need to provide assistance to civilians in Gaza and to end the conflict by pursuing a two-state solution. pic.twitter.com/tbLdSYdxQO

— The Associated Press (@AP) November 6, 2025

The discussion coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Vatican’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, a milestone that reaffirmed the Church’s longstanding position.

Abbas sought renewed international support for a Palestinian state, though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out such plans.

While the pope reiterated support for Palestinian rights, he stopped short of condemning Israel’s military actions, calling instead for calm, aid, and dialogue.

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tippinsightsTIPP Staff