Vatican city: President Mahmoud Abbas of the State of Palestine held a telephone call with Pope Leo XIV of the Vatican, where they discussed the latest developments in the Palestinian Territory and the broader region.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas expressed his gratitude to the Pope for his humanitarian stance, including his calls to end the war in the Gaza Strip and to pursue peace based on the two-state solution. Abbas also noted the Pope's rejection of unilateral actions that undermine peace prospects.
The President briefed the Pope on the situation in Jerusalem, highlighting Israeli violations against holy sites, such as the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to worshippers, particularly during Ramadan.
Abbas further informed the Pope about the situation in the West Bank, citing issues like colonist violence, annexation plans, settlement expansion, and the withholding of Palestinian tax funds, all of which threaten Palestinian state institutions.
President Abbas also discussed the conditions in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the suffering caused by the suspension of humanitarian aid and the closure of the Rafah Crossing.
He condemned Iranian attacks targeting Gulf countries and the region, expressing rejection of any violations of sovereignty, security, and stability. Abbas reiterated solidarity with the Gulf states, Jordan, and others facing what he called 'brutal Iranian attacks.'
The President emphasized the importance of halting the war and resuming dialogue for regional security and stability. He also condemned Israeli attacks on Lebanon and the destruction in the south.
President Abbas called for an international peace conference and the implementation of the Arab Peace Initiative to end the Israeli occupation of Palestinian and Arab territories, aiming for comprehensive peace.
Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Vatican's support for Palestinian rights and peace in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. He stressed the importance of delivering aid to the Gaza Strip and expressed hope for an end to Lebanese suffering.
The leaders exchanged greetings for the approaching holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Easter, agreeing to maintain communication and consultation.
