Pope Leo to Conduct Dialogue with Israeli President Herzog
Pope Leo XIV and Israeli President Isaac Herzog will convene at the Vatican on Thursday, marking a significant meeting between religious and political leaders amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
The initiative for this meeting was set by President Herzog, who requested an audience with the Pope. Contrary to some reports, it was not the Pope who extended the invitation, as the Vatican clarified that audiences for heads of state occur upon their request, not through papal invitation.
The Vatican typically does not comment in advance on the Pope's meetings with world leaders. However, the Israeli presidency stated that the discussion between Pope Leo and President Herzog will cover a range of topics, including the fight against global antisemitism, efforts to secure the return of hostages held in Gaza, and the safeguarding of Christian communities in the Middle East.
Pope Leo has recently stepped up his calls for an end to the war in Gaza, issuing a "strong appeal" for an end to Israel's indiscriminate attacks. He has called for a permanent cease-fire, the release of hostages held in Gaza, and the provision of humanitarian aid.
Tragically, at least 20 Christians have been killed in Israel's indiscriminate bombing of Gaza. This is not the first time churches in Gaza have been targeted, with three major churches—the Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrius, the Catholic Church of the Holy Family, and the Baptist Evangelical Church—having been bombed by Israel.
Pope Leo's predecessor, Pope Francis, had become a frequent critic of Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Following Francis' illness and subsequent death, a new meeting was arranged between Herzog and the new Pope Leo.
Pope Leo was elected by the world's cardinals in May to replace Francis. This week, he has two announced meetings with world leaders: with President Herzog on Thursday and with Polish President Karol Nawrocki on Friday.
A source in the Israeli president's office stated that Herzog was originally scheduled to meet the late Pope Francis during a visit to Italy, but the meeting did not occur due to Francis' illness and subsequent death. This meeting with Pope Leo, therefore, represents a long-awaited opportunity for dialogue between religious and political leaders.
As the crisis in Gaza continues, the meeting between Pope Leo and President Herzog offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution and the protection of innocent lives, particularly those of the Christian community in the region.
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