Pope Leo on Sunday urged the international community to act against violence targeting Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank and to push for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Speaking after the noon prayers at his residence in Castel Gandolfo outside Rome, the pope called for an end to what he described as repeated violence against Palestinians in the territory.
“I renew my appeal for an end to the repeated violence against the Palestinian civilian population in the West Bank,” Pope Leo said.
He also appealed to countries around the world to help revive efforts toward a political settlement.
“I urgently ask the international community to take action so as to advance the two-state solution, for a fair and lasting peace,” he said.
The pope’s remarks came as violence and tensions have increased in parts of the West Bank, including the village of Qusra, where Israeli settlers have reportedly surrounded homes after cutting off water and electricity.
Rights groups have described the actions as part of efforts to force Palestinians from areas where they live and expand Israeli control over land.
The West Bank, along with the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem, is part of the territory claimed by Palestinians for a future independent state.
The Vatican has long supported the creation of a Palestinian state. More than 150 of the 193 UN member states recognize Palestine.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition has overseen continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has said settlement expansion is intended to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The United Nations and most governments consider Israeli settlements in the West Bank illegal under international law governing military occupation.
Israel captured the West Bank during the 1967 war but disputes its legal status as occupied territory.
Pope Leo’s appeal adds to growing international calls for an end to violence against Palestinian civilians and renewed efforts to find a lasting political solution to the conflict.
