Pope Leo XIV urges end to West Bank violence, two-state solution

Angelus address

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday renewed his urgent call for an end to violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, urging the international community to intensify efforts toward a comprehensive two-state solution. Speaking after the weekly Angelus prayer in Rome, the pontiff demanded an immediate cessation "to the repeated acts of violence against the Palestinian population of the West Bank," according to Vatican News.

The pope's remarks come amid continued tensions in the occupied territory, where Israeli military operations and settler violence have drawn increasing international scrutiny. The Holy See has consistently maintained that a negotiated settlement represents the only viable path toward durable peace.

Diplomatic appeal

Leo issued an urgent appeal to global leaders "to ensure that progress is made toward a two-state solution, for a just and lasting peace," the Vatican outlet reported. The diplomatic framework, based on secure and internationally recognized borders, has remained the Vatican's stated position through successive papacies as the equitable resolution to the conflict between Palestine and Israel.

Mediterranean Games

The pontiff also marked the inauguration of the Mediterranean Games in the southern Italian city of Taranto, expressing hope that the athletic competition would serve as "a prophetic sign of peace and fraternity among the peoples of this region and of the whole world." Athletes from nations across Africa, Asia and Europe bordering the Mediterranean Sea are participating in the multi-sport event, which continues through the coming days.