Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pope, brings decades of missionary experience from Peru to his leadership of the global Catholic Church.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
ROME – On November 30, 2025, aboard the papal plane flying from Türkiye to Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV made one of his clearest and strongest statements in favor of Palestinian statehood. He said that a sovereign Palestinian state remains the only solution to the decades-long conflict with Israel. (Vatican News)
The remarks came during his first official overseas trip since his election in May 2025, which included stops in Türkiye and Lebanon.
Pope Leo’s Statements
During the in-flight press conference, Pope Leo told journalists:
“We know that in this moment, Israel does not accept this solution, but we see it as the only one that can offer a solution to the conflict and justice for all involved.” (Vatican News)
Earlier, on November 6, 2025, Pope Leo met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The Holy See’s official bulletin stated:
“There is an urgent need to provide assistance to the civilian population in Gaza and to end the conflict by pursuing a two-State solution.” (Vatican Press)
The pope has also reaffirmed the Vatican’s longstanding support for a two-State solution in a September 2025 statement, while warning about broader global tensions. (Catholic News Agency)
Vatican Role and Diplomatic Position
The Vatican has positioned itself as a mediating voice in the conflict, using its moral authority to encourage diplomacy and humanitarian relief. Pope Leo emphasized that the Holy See seeks to help both parties reach a solution that provides justice for all. (Vatican News)
The Vatican’s stance aligns with its long-term policy supporting a two-State solution as essential for lasting peace, security, and dignity for both peoples.
Reactions from Israel and Palestine
There have been no official public responses from either Israel or the Palestinian Authority regarding Pope Leo’s November 30 statement. The pope himself noted that Israel does not accept a two-State solution at this time. (Vatican News)
- Israel: No formal response has been issued by the Prime Minister’s office or the Foreign Ministry to the pope’s remarks. The Israeli government continues to maintain its position opposing Palestinian statehood under current conditions. (press.vatican.va)
- Palestinian Authority: There is no public statement reacting directly to the pope’s remarks. Observers suggest that his words may offer moral encouragement amid ongoing conflict. (press.vatican.va)
The lack of official response from both sides highlights the sensitivity and complexity of the situation. The pope’s statements carry moral and diplomatic weight, but it is unclear whether they will influence policy or negotiations on the ground.
Why the Pope’s Remarks Matter
Pope Leo XIV’s call for a Palestinian state is significant as both a moral appeal and a diplomatic intervention. His remarks combine humanitarian concern with political advocacy and may encourage renewed focus on negotiations, aid, and international mediation. The Vatican’s active role as a moral and diplomatic actor underscores the continued importance of religious leadership in global conflict resolution.
