Pope Leo XIV snd Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas during a courtesy visit at the Vatican
Pope Leo XIV on Thursday hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican for high-level discussions centered on the Middle East crisis and renewed efforts toward peace in the region.
According to a statement released by the Holy See, the discussions were described as “cordial”, with both leaders reaffirming that a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict must be based on the two-state principle.
The meeting marked the first in-person encounter between Pope Leo XIV, 70, and President Abbas, 89.
The two also reviewed the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, stressing the urgent need to provide relief and protection for civilians affected by the violence.
President Abbas last visited the Vatican in December 2024, when he was received by Pope Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis.
Abbas, who has led the Palestinian Authority since his election in 2005, continues to govern parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, though his administration lost control of Gaza to the Islamist group Hamas in 2007.
The Vatican emphasized that the dialogue underscored the shared commitment of both parties to peace, justice, and humanitarian values in a region long scarred by conflict.
