Pope Leo XIV Advocates for Two-State Solution During Middle East Visit

Pope Leo XIV, during his inaugural international trip, emphasized the necessity of a two-state solution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian territories. Speaking aboard the papal flight from Istanbul to Beirut on November 30, 2025, he stated, “We all know that at this moment Israel does not accept that solution, but we see it as the only solution.” This statement aligns with the Vatican's long-standing position advocating for Palestinian statehood, which was formally recognized by the Holy See in 2015. The pope expressed a desire for the Vatican to act as a "mediating voice" between the conflicting parties, reinforcing the Vatican's diplomatic role in the region.

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Pope Leo's trip to Turkey and Lebanon comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly following Israel's military actions in Gaza. During his visit to Turkey, he met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, discussing both the Israel-Palestinian conflict and the war in Ukraine. The pope noted Turkey's potential role in fostering dialogue and promoting peace, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in resolving these conflicts.

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Throughout his visit, Pope Leo condemned violence in the name of religion, stating that humanity's future is jeopardized by ongoing conflicts. He criticized Israel's military operations in Gaza, which he described as a "massacre," echoing sentiments previously expressed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State. The pope's remarks reflect a shift towards more direct criticism of Israeli actions, which he has historically approached with caution.

New York Times

Upon arriving in Lebanon, Pope Leo urged Lebanese political leaders to prioritize peace amidst a complex regional landscape. In a speech attended by President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, he emphasized the need for reconciliation and the courage to remain in Lebanon despite the challenges posed by ongoing conflicts. He encouraged the Lebanese people to stay in their country and work towards unity, stating, “It takes real courage and foresight to stay or return to one’s own country.”

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Pope Leo's statements have drawn attention to the Vatican's diplomatic efforts in the region. He reiterated, “We are also friends of Israel,” while advocating for justice for all parties involved. His visit aims to support Lebanon's Christian minority and promote inter-religious dialogue, reflecting the Vatican's commitment to fostering peace in a region marked by division.

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• “We all know that at this moment Israel does not accept that solution, but we see it as the only solution,” — Pope Leo XIV

National Catholic Reporter

• “We seek with both sides to be a mediating voice that can help to draw close to a solution with justice for all,” — Pope Leo XIV

CNN

• “there are times when it is easier to flee, or simply more convenient to move elsewhere. It takes real courage and foresight to stay or return to one’s own country.” — Pope Leo XIV

The Guardian

Pope Leo XIV's visit to Lebanon will include meetings with various religious leaders and a mass on the Beirut waterfront. His engagement in the region is expected to continue as he seeks to promote dialogue and peace amidst ongoing tensions, particularly in light of recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah. The pope's actions and statements will be closely monitored as he navigates the complexities of Middle Eastern diplomacy.

The Guardian