By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Dec 12, 2024 / 11:55 am
Recently, Pope Francis welcomed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to the Vatican for a crucial discussion on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the potential for peace in the Holy Land.
The meeting, which lasted 30 minutes, was followed by separate discussions with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy to achieve a resolution for the two states. The Vatican also recognized the significant role of the Catholic Church in Palestinian society, particularly in providing aid in Gaza and advocating for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
This visit marked President Abbas’ first visit to the Vatican since 2021, signifying the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration between the two leaders.
According to the Vatican, the 89-year-old Palestinian leader, who has been in office for about 20 years, has had multiple conversations with Pope Francis over the phone since October.
