Pope Leo XIV calls two-state solution the 'only solution' for Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday reiterated the Holy See's insistence on a two-state resolution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, calling it the "only solution" capable of guaranteeing justice for both sides.

The pontiff made the comments to reporters aboard his flight from Istanbul, Turkiye, to Beirut, Lebanon, the second and final leg of his maiden international voyage. The comments came in response to a question regarding the Vatican's position on the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, and his private talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"The Holy See already for several years publicly supports the solution of two states," the Pope said. He acknowledged the current political reality, stating, "We all know that right now Israel still does not accept this solution but we see it as the only one to the conflict they continually live."

The Pope emphasized the Vatican's commitment to mediation, noting that the position aligns with long-standing Vatican policy. "We are also friends of Israel and we try with both parties to be a mediating voice that can help us get closer to a just solution for everyone," he stated.

Pope Leo XIV confirmed that he had discussed the wars in Gaza and Ukraine with President Erdogan during his visit to Turkiye. He noted that Turkiye has an "important role to play" in the conflict resolution, particularly given its relationships in the region. Speaking specifically about the two-state solution, the Pope said President Erdogan "is certainly in agreement with this." The pontiff also expressed hope that Erdogan could use his relationships to play a key role regarding the conflict in Ukraine.

The Pope arrived in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, on Sunday afternoon, where he was greeted by a light drizzle. He brought a message of hope to the nation, which has been affected by violence and economic crises. Christians constitute about one-third of Lebanon's 5.8 million inhabitants and are considered an important community in the Middle East, which had been anxiously awaiting the pontiff's presence.

During his arrival and a subsequent speech at the presidential palace, the Pope met with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. A cedar tree was planted in the presidential garden to commemorate the visit. Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to return to Rome on Tuesday.