Vatican city: Pope Leo XIV discussed the “tragic situation in Gaza” during a meeting Thursday with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, calling for negotiations to secure the release of the remaining hostages and a permanent ceasefire in the Strip, according to Sky News Arabia.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the Vatican issued a statement emphasizing the importance of resuming negotiations swiftly. The statement highlighted the need to secure the release of all hostages and achieve a permanent ceasefire urgently. It also stressed facilitating safe access for humanitarian aid to the most affected areas and ensuring full respect for humanitarian law.

The meeting comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with international calls for peace and stability. Pope Leo XIV’s engagement underscores the Vatican’s commitment to advocating for dialogue and humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.