Pope Urges Mideast Two-State Solution
VATICAN CITY (WHN) – Pope Francis on Monday called for a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine to resolve the ongoing conflict. The pontiff delivered the plea during his traditional Christmas Day “Urbi et Orbi” address from St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing thousands of pilgrims and a global audience.
His message centered on an immediate end to the violence.
The Pope spoke from the central loggia overlooking St. Peter’s Square. He directly addressed the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that began with the Hamas attack on October 7.
“I plead for an end to the military operations with their appalling harvest of innocent civilian victims,” Francis stated, “and call for a solution to the desperate humanitarian situation by an opening to the provision of humanitarian aid.”
A Negotiated Settlement
The pontiff’s proposal was specific. He urged a “negotiated solution” that would lead to “the peaceful coexistence of two states, side by side, enjoying security.”
Francis called for this solution to be supported by the international community. He described the October 7 attack by Hamas as “abominable” and made an impassioned plea for the immediate release of all remaining hostages held in Gaza.
The Pope also referenced the birthplace of Jesus. He noted that Bethlehem, the site of the Christmas story, is a place “gripped by sorrow and silence” due to the current hostilities.
Global Conflicts in Focus
The address was not limited to the Middle East. Francis’s message encompassed numerous global hotspots, urging peace and dialogue across continents.
He prayed for an end to the war in Ukraine. The Pope also mentioned conflicts impacting Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon, expressing concern for the stability of the entire region.
Further conflicts in Armenia and Azerbaijan, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo were highlighted in his appeal. The pontiff called for a “path to definitive peace” on the Korean peninsula.
Humanitarian Toll Decried
A central theme of the Pope’s speech was the impact of war on non-combatants. He lamented the high civilian death toll, particularly among children, whom he called the “little Jesuses of today.”
He condemned the “logic of war.” Francis argued against the arms industry, which he claimed profits from an “instrument of death.”
War itself is a “futile journey,” the pontiff stated. He contrasted the pursuit of military victory with the Christian message of peace, asking how people can speak of peace while armament production, sale, and trade are on the rise.
The Pope also turned his attention to the plight of migrants. He called on governments and individuals to address the root causes forcing people to flee their homes, praying that they find welcome and support.
