Pope Leo XIV calls for end to West Bank violence, two-state solution

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday renewed his appeal for an end to violence against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank, urging the international community to advance a two-state solution for a 'just and lasting peace'. Speaking after the Angelus prayer at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope wrote on X: 'I renew my appeal for an end to the ongoing violence against the Palestinian civilian population in the West Bank.' Livemint reports the Pope's remarks came amid intensified settler attacks, including in the village of Qusra where settlers reportedly cut off water and electricity.

The Vatican has long supported a two-state solution as the only viable path for Israel and Palestine. More than 150 UN member states recognise Palestinian statehood. Israeli settlements in the West Bank remain a major point of dispute; the UN and most governments deem them illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this, calling the West Bank contested territory. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has said settlement policy aims to prevent a Palestinian state.

Pope Leo's intervention adds to international pressure over the future of the Palestinian territories. The appeal comes as violence and settlement activity continue to complicate efforts toward a negotiated political settlement.