International Relations: Israel and Palestine seeking a fair and enduring peace, according to the Vatican
Holy See Urges Immediate Action in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
The Holy See, through its Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Archbishop Caccia, has emphasized its stance on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. During a UN conference on the Palestinian issue held in New York from 28 July to 30 July 2025, Archbishop Caccia stressed the importance of preserving Jerusalem's unique identity.
Archbishop Caccia highlighted the impact of the conflict on civilians, particularly the number of children killed, destruction of homes, hospitals, and places of worship, and the attack on the Church of the Holy Family (no specific date mentioned). He expressed hope that the meeting would serve as a reminder that only a constructive and inclusive dialogue can lead to a just and lasting solution to conflicts.
The Holy See strongly supports the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including the right to self-determination, as well as their legitimate aspirations to live in freedom, security, and dignity within an independent and sovereign state. It condemns terrorist attacks such as those by Hamas but calls for proportional self-defense. The Holy See also expressed grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, including the protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian aid.
Regarding the status of Jerusalem, the Holy See views it as a city of universal religious and cultural significance sacred to Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike. It calls for an internationally guaranteed special statute that transcends political divisions to preserve the city’s unique identity, safeguard its sacred character, cultural heritage, and ensure equality before the law for all inhabitants and faith communities.
The Holy See has officially recognized the state of Palestine through the 2015 Global Agreement and the state of Israel through the 1993 Basic Agreement. It seeks a special status for Jerusalem guaranteed at the international level, with dignity and rights for all inhabitants and believers of the three monotheistic religions.
Archbishop Caccia also addressed the international community, appealing for an immediate and coordinated response to the displacement of families, collapse of essential services, increasing hunger, and generalized privations. He quoted Pope Leo XIV, appealing for an end to "the barbarity of war".
In light of the current situation, the Holy See urges an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian relief, a peaceful two-state solution, and a special international status for Jerusalem that guarantees the preservation of its unique identity. It calls for the cessation of hostilities, protection of Palestinian civilians, and the release of Israeli hostages (1 August 2025). The Holy See's current stance emphasizes its commitment to a balanced diplomatic approach, seeking peace and justice for all parties involved.
[1] UN News, Archbishop of the Holy See addresses UN Security Council on Palestinian issue [2] Vatican News, Archbishop Caccia addresses UN Security Council on the Palestinian issue [3] Vatican News, The Holy See's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict [4] CNN, Archbishop Caccia calls for ceasefire in Israeli-Palestinian conflict
- The Holy See's appeal for an immediate ceasefire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict extends beyond the borders of war-and-conflicts, emphasizing the need for political negotiation and general-news discussions to ensure a peaceful resolution.
- As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict unfolds, global news channels such as UN News, Vatican News, CNN, and others are closely monitoring the Holy See's involvement, as its stance on the issue encompasses politics, humanitarian concerns, and the unique significance of Jerusalem.
