Pope engages in discourse with Israeli president concerning the distressing predicament in Gaza
Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on September 4, 2023, marking a significant diplomatic encounter between the two leaders. The meeting, originally scheduled with Pope Francis but rescheduled after his passing in April, was arranged in full coordination with the Vatican through diplomatic channels.
The discussion between the two leaders focused on the political and social situation in the Middle East, with particular attention given to the tragic situation in Gaza, which has been at the centre of ongoing Israeli military operations. The focus of President Herzog's meetings with Pope Leo and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, was on efforts to secure the release of hostages.
Pope Leo had previously called on Israel to ensure the safe entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and full respect for humanitarian law. In his post-meeting remarks, President Herzog emphasized the need for all leaders to stand united in calling for the immediate release of hostages as the first step toward a better future for the entire region.
The main points of discussion included the resumption of negotiations, the release of hostages, a permanent ceasefire, the entry of humanitarian aid, respect for humanitarian law, and the legitimate aspirations of both peoples. The pope and president also discussed the duty to protect civilians, the prohibitions against collective punishment, the indiscriminate use of force, and the forced displacement of populations.
Pope Leo XIV valued President Herzog's commitment to peace and his efforts in the struggle against hatred and violence. President Herzog, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the pope's inspiration and leadership in promoting peace around the world.
The Vatican did not formally issue an invitation for the meeting; it clarified that audiences with Pope Leo XIV are granted upon request, implying that the meeting between Pope Leo XIV and President Isaac Herzog was arranged at Herzog's initiative rather than by an official Vatican invitation.
The meeting took place a week after Pope Leo appealed for Israel and Hamas to stop the violence and for Hamas to release hostages. This encounter between the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the President of Israel is a testament to the ongoing efforts towards peace and reconciliation in the Middle East.
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