Pope Leo XIV says two-state solution remains only viable option for Israel-Palestinian conflict resolution during papal flight to Beirut
BEIRUT: Pope Leo XIV has reiterated that a two-state solution represents the only viable path to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Speaking to reporters during his flight from Istanbul to Beirut on Sunday, the pontiff maintained the tradition of his predecessors by addressing current affairs.
“The Holy See has publicly backed the proposal for a two-state solution for several years,” he stated during a brief exchange.
“We all know that Israel still does not accept it, but we consider it the only solution likely to resolve the current conflict.”
The pope revealed he discussed the matter with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during their Thursday meeting in Ankara.
He noted that Erdogan “fully supports this proposal” and emphasised that “Turkey has an important role to play in this process.”
The Holy See officially recognized the State of Palestine in 2015.
Since his election in May, Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly expressed solidarity with what he termed the “martyred land” of Gaza.
He has consistently denounced the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians throughout the ongoing conflict.
The pontiff confirmed that the Vatican maintains “friendly” relations with Israel despite policy differences.
He also revealed that the Holy See has offered its services as a mediator in the conflict resolution process.
This marks the pope’s first foreign trip since his election to the papacy in May. – AFP
