Pope Leo: Recognition of Palestine helps, but dialogue is broken

Responding to journalists' questions as he prepared to leave Castel Gandolfo for the Vatican on Tuesday evening, Pope Leo XIV reflected, 'If Europe were truly united, I believe it could do a lot.'

Pope Leo XIV has returned to the Vatican on Tuesday evening after spending a day in Castel Gandolfo.

Pope Leo XIV responds to journalists' questions before departing from Castel Gandolfo 

However, prior to departing, he responded briefly to journalists about the situation in the Middle East.

“The Holy See has supported the two-state solution for many years,” he recalled. He also mentioned that on the same day, he had communicated with the Catholic parish in Gaza.

Asked about the recognition of Palestine as a state, the Holy Father reaffirmed, “The Holy See recognized the two-state solution some time ago. That is clear: we must seek a path that respects all peoples.”

Regarding that recognition, he added, “It could help, but right now there is no real willingness to listen on the part of the other side; dialogue is broken.”

Concerning the situation in Gaza, he explained: “Thank God, the parish is fine, although the incursions are getting closer and closer... This afternoon I got in touch with them.”

The journalists also asked him about the Russian incursions: “Someone is seeking an escalation. It’s getting more and more dangerous. I continue to insist on the need to lay down arms, halt military advances, and return to the negotiating table.”

In that context, he emphasized that “If Europe were truly united, I believe it could do a lot.”

When asked whether rearmament is necessary, he replied, “These are political matters, also influenced by external pressure on Europe. I prefer not to comment.”

Moreover, the Pope responded to a question about the diplomatic initiatives the Holy See could undertake in the coming months, stating, “We are in constant dialogue with ambassadors. We also try to speak with heads of state when they come, always seeking a solution.”

After the exchange, the Pope returned to the Vatican.

Pope Leo XIV will preside over his weekly General Audience on Wednesday morning.

Sebastián Sansón Ferrari – Castel Gandolfo
Source: vaticannews.va/en