Pope Leo XIV on Thursday received Isaac Herzog, President of the State of Israel, in audience in the Apostolic Palace.

The Israeli President subsequently met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.

According to a statement issued by the Holy See Press Office, during “the cordial talks with the Holy Father and in the Secretariat of State, the political and social situation in the Middle East was addressed, where numerous conflicts persist, with particular attention given to the tragic situation in Gaza.”

Hope was expressed “for a speedy resumption of negotiations so that, with willingness and corageous decisions, as well as the support of the international community, the release of all hostages can be achieved, a permanent ceasefire reached with urgency, the safe entry of humanitarian aid into the most affected areas be facilitated, and full respect for humanitarian law be ensured, together with the legitimate aspirations of the two peoples.”

The statement added that there were talks about how to ensure a future for the Palestinian people and about peace and stability in the region… Read more »

The Papal Villa and lush gardens in Castel Gandolfo, located about 25 kilometres southeast of Rome, is an expansive complex of buildings and gardens that overlook Lake Albano. Originally, the site belonged to Emperor Domitian’s villa but was acquired by the Holy See and has historically served as the summer residence for Popes.

Pope Leo XIV and the Laudato si’ project

This week, Pope Leo XIV will officially inaugurate much of the Castel Gandolfo property as the Borgo Laudato si’ ecology project… Read more »