Pope Leo greets Israeli President Herzog

Pope Leo welcomes Israeli President Herzog's visit

In a significant development, Pope Leo XIV met with Israeli President Izchak Herzog in the Vatican on a date agreed upon after his inauguration. This meeting, originally scheduled with the late Pope Francis, was a historic moment as the Holy See does not typically invite heads of state for an audience with the Pope.

The discussion between the two leaders focused predominantly on the ongoing Gaza conflict. Pope Leo XIV has been a vocal advocate for dialogue and reconciliation in the region, particularly emphasizing the suffering of children in the Gaza Strip. He has also been calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages held by the Islamic Hamas.

Herzog praised the Pope's leadership in combating hatred and violence and promoting peace in the world. He thanked Leo for the "warm welcome" after the meeting. The Israeli President also assured that Israel is committed to the security and well-being of Christians in the Holy Land and throughout the Middle East.

The Holy See reaffirmed that a two-state solution is the only way to end the ongoing conflict and ensure a future for the Palestinian people. The Vatican issued an unusual statement regarding the meeting, stating that it is not usual to invite heads of state.

Before the meeting with Pope Leo XIV, Herzog had scheduled a discussion with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin immediately after his audience with the Pope on September 4, 2025. There is no mention of any other preceding talks before Herzog's Vatican visit.

Under Pope Leo's predecessor, relations between the Vatican and Israel were strained. However, under Leo's leadership, there seems to be a renewed focus on dialogue and understanding. The parties discussed the swift resumption of negotiations on a ceasefire, underscoring the urgency of finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.

Following the meeting with Leo, Herzog met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. The Israeli Presidential Office announced that Herzog was initially supposed to meet with the late Pope Francis.

The meeting between Pope Leo XIV and Israeli President Herzog marks a significant step towards fostering peace and dialogue in the Middle East. As the situation in the Gaza Strip remains fragile, the international community continues to hope for a swift resolution to the conflict, ensuring the safety and well-being of all those affected.