Pope Leo XIV on Sunday reiterated his appeal for an immediate end to violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and called on the international community to intensify efforts toward achieving a two-state solution.
Speaking after the weekly Angelus prayer, the pontiff condemned the continuing violence against the Palestinian population and urged global powers to take concrete steps toward establishing lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis.
He stressed that a two-state arrangement remains essential for achieving a fair and sustainable settlement. The Vatican has repeatedly supported a solution founded on secure and internationally recognized borders for both Palestine and Israel.
The pope also highlighted the opening of the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy. He expressed hope that the sporting competition would become a symbol of peace, unity and friendship among nations across the Mediterranean region and beyond.
The event is bringing together athletes from African, Asian and European countries bordering the Mediterranean.