Pope Francis met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican on 12 December 2024, to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the prospects for peace in the Holy Land. The 30-minute audience emphasised the importance of finding a solution through dialogue and diplomacy, with both parties condemning all forms of terrorism ยน. The Vatican highlighted the Catholic Church’s significant contribution to Palestinian society and its role in providing humanitarian assistance in Gaza, where officials are calling for a ceasefire and the release of all hostages as soon as possible.
The meeting marked Abbas’ first visit to the Vatican since 2021, and it comes amid rising tensions in Gaza. Pope Francis has been vocal about the need for peace in the region, and he has previously questioned whether Israel’s actions could be considered genocide. The Vatican expressed hope that the upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year would see the return of pilgrims to the Holy Land, which “longs so much for peace”.
Abbas’ visit also included a meeting with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, secretary for relations with states. The Palestinian president’s visit comes one day before Lebanese interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati is scheduled to meet with Pope Francis at the Vatican.