Washington, D.C. – Religion News Service, Sept. 04, 2025
Pope Leo XIV and Israeli President Isaac Herzog met for a private audience on Thursday (Sept. 4) at the Vatican, where they discussed the war in the Holy Land and the importance of achieving peace.
“The talks focused on the political and social situation in the Middle East, where numerous conflicts persist, with particular attention to the tragic situation in Gaza,” read a statement from the Vatican released shortly after the meeting.
The statement said both parties agreed on the need to restart negotiations “to secure the release of all hostages, urgently reach a permanent ceasefire, ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid to the hardest-hit areas, and guarantee full respect for humanitarian law as well as the legitimate aspirations of both peoples.”
The conversation, described as “cordial” by the Vatican, also addressed the hope that peace talks take place with “openness, courageous decisions, and the support of the international community.”
This was the second meeting between Leo and Herzog, who also attended the inaugural Mass for the pontiff on May 18.
