Pope Leo XIV has reaffirmed the Vatican’s steadfast support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, describing it as the “only path” to justice for both sides. The pontiff made the remarks while traveling from Turkiye to Lebanon on Sunday, marking the second leg of his first international tour as pope.
During the flight, Leo confirmed that his discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara had touched on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, noting Turkiye’s “important role” in seeking resolution for both conflicts. On Gaza, he reiterated that the creation of a Palestinian state in East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza remains the internationally recognized solution to decades of hostilities.
“We are friends with Israel and aim to act as a mediating voice to bring both sides closer to a just resolution,” Leo said, while noting that Israel has yet to embrace this approach.
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Arriving in Beirut, the pope is scheduled to meet President Joseph Aoun and deliver a speech to government officials and diplomats. He will also hold a large public mass and visit multiple cities, including a psychiatric hospital, highlighting Lebanon’s diverse communities and ongoing recovery efforts.
Security was heightened ahead of his arrival, particularly in Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold previously affected by Israeli airstrikes. The pope will not travel to southern Lebanon, which continues to face near-daily strikes despite a ceasefire brokered by the United States in 2024.
Residents and religious leaders have welcomed Leo’s visit as a symbol of hope. “He is coming to bless us and for the sake of peace,” said Farah Saadeh, a Beirut local, reflecting the anticipation surrounding the papal mission. Hezbollah, meanwhile, called on the pope to speak against the injustices and aggression faced by the country.