Rome: President Mahmoud Abbas discussed the latest developments in the occupied Palestinian territory with Pope Leo XIV during a phone call focused on the ongoing crisis in the region. President Abbas outlined the severe hardships faced by the Palestinian people, including the impacts of the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in killings, starvation, and widespread destruction, including the recent destruction of the Holy Family Church in Gaza.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the importance of securing the release of hostages. He also highlighted the necessity of facilitating medical and humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and urged for the release of Palestinian funds withheld by Israel, which have further strained the situation. President Abbas called on Pope Leo XIV to urge world leaders to intervene against the violence and to protect both Islamic and Christian holy sites from attacks.
Furthermore, President Abbas praised the Vatican's consistent support for international humanitarian law and its calls for peace in the region. He reaffirmed the commitment of the State of Palestine to maintaining strong relations with the Vatican, which recognized Palestine in 2015. Additionally, he expressed gratitude for the Vatican's decision to host and treat wounded children from Gaza in Rome.
In the conversation, President Abbas invited Pope Leo XIV to visit the Holy Land to pray for peace at significant religious sites, including the Church of the Nativity and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Pope Leo XIV reiterated the Vatican's stance on respecting international and humanitarian law and the importance of ending conflicts and respecting holy sites, stating, "We pray for peace."
