Pope Leo XIV waves from the popemobile in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican during his weekly general audience on September 24, 2025.Pope Leo XIV renewed the Holy See’s support for a two-state solution in the Holy Land and voiced concern over rising tensions in Ukraine, speaking with reporters Tuesday before returning from Castel Gandolfo to the Vatican.
“The Holy See has supported the two-state solution for many years,” the pope recalled, pointing out that the Vatican formally recognized Palestine in 2015 with the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement. “The Holy See recognized the two-state solution some time ago. That is clear: We must seek a path that respects all peoples.”
Asked whether broader international recognition of Palestine might help, he said: “It could help, but right now there is no real willingness to listen on the part of the other side; dialogue is broken.”
The pope confirmed that he had spoken by phone the same day with the Catholic parish in Gaza. “Thank God, the parish is fine, although the incursions are getting closer and closer… This afternoon I got in touch with them,” he said.
On Ukraine, he cautioned: “Someone is seeking an escalation. It’s getting more and more dangerous. I continue to insist on the need to lay down arms, halt military advances, and return to the negotiating table.” He stressed the importance of European unity, saying: “If Europe were truly united, I believe it could do a lot.”
Pressed on whether rearmament in Europe is necessary, the pope declined to weigh in directly: “These are political matters, also influenced by external pressure on Europe. I prefer not to comment.”
Regarding Vatican diplomacy, he explained: “We are in constant dialogue with ambassadors. We also try to speak with heads of state when they come, always seeking a solution.”
Rosary for Peace in October
At his weekly general audience on Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics around the world to dedicate October to praying the rosary for peace.
“Dear brothers and sisters, the month of October is now approaching, and in the Church it is dedicated in a special way to the Holy Rosary. Therefore, I invite everyone, every day of the coming month, to pray the Rosary for peace: personally, in the family, in the community,” he said.
The pope asked Vatican employees to join in this prayer daily at 7 p.m. in St. Peter’s Basilica. He also announced that on Saturday, October 11, at 6 p.m., he will lead a Rosary in St. Peter’s Square during the vigil for the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, marking as well the anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council.
(Vatican Media photo.)
By Victoria Cardiel, Catholic News Agency
