Pope Francis Meets with Palestinian President to Discuss Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Vatican City, November 2023
Pope Francis, who has recently intensified his criticism of the Israeli offensive in Gaza, met with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas on Thursday to discuss the "serious" humanitarian situation in the region.
Private Meeting and Discussion of Peace Efforts
The meeting, which lasted for a private half-hour audience, was attended by Abbas, who has previously met with the Pope several times. Additionally, Abbas met with the Holy See’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Vatican’s equivalent of a foreign minister, Paul Richard Gallagher.
The discussions focused on the Church’s assistance in "the very serious humanitarian situation in Gaza," the hoped-for ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and "achieving the two-state solution only through dialogue and diplomacy," according to a Vatican statement.
Controversial Photo and Israeli Protests
The meeting comes days after the release of a photo showing Pope Francis praying in front of a nativity scene at the Vatican, where the baby Jesus’s manger is covered with a black and white keffiyeh scarf, the symbol of Palestinian resistance. The photo prompted a protest from the Israeli embassy to the Holy See, which asked for the keffiyeh to be removed, according to diplomatic and Vatican sources.
Pope’s Criticism of Israeli Offense
Francis has called for peace since Hamas’s unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, and the Israeli retaliatory campaign in Gaza. In recent weeks, he has hardened his remarks against the Israeli offensive, stating that "the invader’s arrogance… prevails over dialogue" in "Palestine," a rare position that contrasts with the tradition of neutrality of the Holy See.
Historical Context and Vatican Position
The Holy See has recognized the State of Palestine since 2013, with which it maintains diplomatic relations, and it supports the two-state solution. Pope Francis has also denounced an "immoral" use of force in Lebanon and Gaza at the end of September.
Upcoming Meetings and Future Steps
Abbas is also due to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella in Rome.
Conclusion
The meeting between Pope Francis and Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas is a significant step in the efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and promote peace in the region. The Vatican’s recognition of the State of Palestine and its support for the two-state solution demonstrate its commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
FAQs
- What was the purpose of the meeting between Pope Francis and Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas?
- The meeting focused on discussing the Church’s assistance in the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the hoped-for ceasefire, and the release of all hostages.
- What was the outcome of the meeting?
- The meeting resulted in a discussion of the Church’s assistance in the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the hoped-for ceasefire, and the release of all hostages.
- What has Pope Francis said about the Israeli offense?
- Pope Francis has called for peace since the start of the conflict and has criticized the Israeli offensive, stating that "the invader’s arrogance… prevails over dialogue" in "Palestine."