Pope Leo raises ‘tragic scenario in Gaza’ in assembly with Israeli president

Pope Leo, assembly with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, emphasizes the necessity to ‘urgently obtain a everlasting ceasefire’

VATICAN CITY – Pope Leo XIV mentioned the “tragic scenario in Gaza” throughout a gathering on Thursday, September 4, with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and known as for a everlasting ceasefire within the Palestinian enclave, the Vatican mentioned.

The pontiff additionally known as for the discharge of remaining hostages held by Palestinian militant group Hamas, the assertion mentioned, and reiterated the Vatican’s assist for a two-state resolution to the decades-long Israel-Palestinian battle.

“A immediate resumption of negotiations was hoped for… to safe the discharge of all hostages, urgently obtain a everlasting ceasefire, facilitate the protected entry of humanitarian support into essentially the most affected areas, and guarantee full respect for humanitarian regulation,” mentioned the assertion.

Herzog had earlier thanked Leo for the assembly in a submit on X, and mentioned he had obtained a heat welcome on the Vatican.

“Non secular leaders and all who select the trail of peace should stand collectively in calling for the fast launch of the hostages as a primary and important step towards a greater future for the whole area,” mentioned the president.

The Vatican launched images of the leaders greeting one another within the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace however didn’t say how lengthy they spent collectively. In a single picture, the 2 stand posing side-by-side, with neither smiling.

Leo, elected by the world’s cardinals in Might to exchange the late Pope Francis, has up to now taken a extra cautious tone than Francis when talking about Israel’s army marketing campaign in Gaza.

Francis, who had led the Church for 12 years, had turn out to be a frequent critic of Israel. He recommended a examine into whether or not Israel was committing genocide towards the Palestinian folks, which sparked sharp criticism from Israeli officers.

Stepping up requires ceasefire

Leo has been stepping up his requires a halt to the conflict in Gaza.

Thursday’s launch from the Vatican was notably longer than normal for statements in regards to the Pope’s assembly with overseas leaders, which usually solely provide only some traces of knowledge and don’t give particular particulars in regards to the subjects mentioned by the pope.

Herzog additionally met Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s chief diplomat, and different prime Vatican officers. One official, talking anonymously with out permission, mentioned they targeted their discussions with Herzog on the necessity to assure a future for the Palestinian folks.

Leo and Herzog introduced earlier this week that they’d meet however had disagreed publicly over whose concept the assembly was.

The Israeli presidency had issued a launch on Tuesday, September 2, saying Herzog would meet Leo on the Pope’s invitation.

In an uncommon assertion later that day, the Vatican responded: “It’s the Holy See’s follow to accede to requests for an viewers with the pope made by Heads of State and Authorities; it’s not its follow to increase invites to them.” – Rappler.com