Israeli President Isaac Herzog met on Thursday with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. He also met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Vatican, and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States of the Vatican.
In his meetings, President Herzog spoke of the ongoing efforts to return the hostages held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza for nearly 700 days. He stressed that 48 hostages remained in captivity, spoke of the immediate and grave danger they faced, and the pain and anguish of their families. He called for intensified international efforts to secure their swift release, and asked the Pope to meet with the families of the hostages.
The meetings also addressed the rise of antisemitism worldwide, the importance of protecting minorities in the Middle East, particularly Christian communities and the Druze community in Syria, as well as the well-being of Christian communities in Israel, Judea and Samaria, and Gaza. The Vatican officials raised the issue of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and the discussions also touched on interfaith dialogue and additional bilateral and regional matters.
Afterward, President Herzog visited the Vatican Archives and Library.
Following the meeting, President Herzog expressed his gratitude to the pontiff, stating, "I am deeply thankful to Pope Leo XIV for the warm welcome today at the Vatican."
Addressing the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Herzog stressed Israel's commitment to securing the release of hostages held by the Hamas terrorist organization. "Above all else, Israel is striving in every possible way to bring home the hostages held in brutal captivity by Hamas. Israel yearns for a day when the peoples of the Middle East - the Children of Abraham - will live together in peace, partnership, and hope."
Calling on international religious leadership, Herzog said, "All leaders of faith and goodwill must stand united in calling for the immediate release of the hostages as the first and essential step toward a better future for the entire region."
The president also reaffirmed Israel's commitment to religious freedom and the protection of Christian communities in the region. "The State of Israel is committed to freedom of religion for all faiths and determined to continue working for peace, tranquility, and stability throughout the region. Israel is proud of its Christian community and dedicated to ensuring the security and well-being of Christian communities in the Holy Land and throughout the Middle East."
Herzog concluded by praising the Pope's global efforts to promote peace. "The Pope’s inspiration and leadership in the struggle against hatred and violence, and in promoting peace around the world, is valued and vital. I look forward to deepening our cooperation for a better future of justice and compassion."