Aboard Papal Flight — Pope Leo has reiterated that the creation of a Palestinian state remains the only realistic solution to the decades-long conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, underscoring a central pillar of Vatican diplomacy as tensions continue to shape the Middle East.
The pontiff delivered the remarks on Sunday during an in-flight conversation with journalists as he traveled from Turkey to Lebanon. It was his first airborne press briefing since becoming the head of the Catholic Church in May—an election that made him the first pope in history to come from the United States.
A Firm Call for a Two-State Solution
Responding to questions about the region’s political landscape, Pope Leo said the Vatican continues to believe that peace will only be possible if Palestinians are granted a sovereign state. Although he acknowledged Israel’s current rejection of that outcome, he maintained that the Holy See views it as the only viable path forward.
“We understand that Israel does not presently accept this framework,” he said in Italian. “Yet we remain convinced that a fully recognized Palestinian state is the only solution capable of bringing justice and durable peace to both peoples.”
The comments reaffirm a long-standing position of the Catholic Church, which has consistently supported a negotiated two-state arrangement.
Balancing Friendship and Mediation
Pope Leo emphasized that the Vatican considers itself a friend to Israel and aims to foster dialogue, not confrontation. He noted that the Holy See seeks to play a constructive role capable of helping both parties narrow their differences.
“We are committed to serving as a voice of mediation,” the pope added, stressing that any durable resolution must ensure fairness and dignity for all involved.
Netanyahu Maintains Opposition as U.S. Signals Support
The pontiff’s remarks come at a time when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again voiced strong opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state. His firm stance persists even as the United States—Israel’s closest strategic ally—has expressed openness to Palestinian independence as part of a broader regional peace framework.
Diplomatic analysts say the widening gap between Washington’s evolving position and Netanyahu’s hard line has placed renewed focus on international actors, including the Vatican, who may attempt to encourage compromise.
A Brief Exchange During a Significant Trip
Sunday’s comments unfolded during a concise eight-minute session with reporters, most of which focused on Pope Leo’s recent four-day visit to Turkey—his first international trip as leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. His stops in Ankara and Istanbul highlighted interfaith dialogue, refugee protection, and regional stability.
The pope’s travel to Lebanon, a nation deeply affected by Middle East geopolitical tensions, is expected to include meetings with political and religious leaders as he continues advocating for peace, humanitarian support, and mutual respect among the region’s diverse communities.
A Message with Global Implications
Although brief, Pope Leo’s reaffirmation of Palestinian statehood as the only sustainable path to peace reflects the Vatican’s enduring diplomatic message: that coexistence and justice must form the foundation of any long-term settlement.
As instability persists across the region, his comments signal that the Catholic Church intends to maintain an active voice in international peace efforts—balancing friendship with Israel, solidarity with Palestinians, and a commitment to fairness for all.
