Pope Francis Meets Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Discusses Gaza Ceasefire and Two-State Solution

Pope Francis met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for a 30-minute discussion focused on the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the need for international support for Palestine.

In an interview with Vatican Media following the meeting, President Abbas described the encounter as “fruitful,” stating, “Every time I meet the Pope, it’s like meeting an old friend.” Abbas expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for his consistent advocacy for peace in the Middle East and for his solidarity with Palestinian civilians caught in the conflict.

The Palestinian leader emphasized the need for continued recognition of the State of Palestine in the international community, reiterating that the only path to peace is through a two-state solution. He urged the Pope to continue promoting this cause globally.

According to the Holy See Press Office, the meeting also included discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Secretary for Relations with States. The “very serious humanitarian situation in Gaza” was a central topic, with a call for a ceasefire and the release of all hostages. The importance of a diplomatic and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was also highlighted.

Further, the discussions touched on the Catholic Church’s ongoing humanitarian work in Gaza and the necessity of a special status for Jerusalem, so that it may remain a shared place of worship and friendship for the three major monotheistic religions.

The upcoming 2025 Holy Year was also mentioned, with hopes that it would encourage the return of pilgrims to the Holy Land.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Pope Francis and President Abbas exchanged gifts. The Pope presented several items, including his message for the World Day of Peace and a bas-relief symbolizing peace as a fragile flower. In return, President Abbas gifted the Pope a painting of their meeting and an icon of Saint Porphyrius, the patron saint of Gaza, as a token from Patriarch Theophilus of Jerusalem.