During a cordial meeting with the Holy Father and the Secretariat of State, the political and social situation in the Middle East, where numerous conflicts persist, was addressed. Particular attention was paid to the tragic situation in Gaza. Discussions focused on how to guarantee a future for the Palestinian people and achieve peace and stability in the region, with the Holy See reiterating the two-state solution as the only way out of the ongoing war. The talks also included the situation in the West Bank and the important question of Jerusalem. This was reported in a Vatican communiqué following the nearly three-hour visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, which included a private audience with the Pontiff.
The communiqué expressed hope for a prompt resumption of negotiations so that, with willingness and courageous decisions supported by the international community, the release of all hostages can be secured. It also called for urgently reaching a permanent ceasefire, facilitating the safe entry of humanitarian aid into the most affected areas, and ensuring full respect for international humanitarian law, as well as the legitimate aspirations of both peoples.