Israel's president meets with Pope Leo XIV

On Thursday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog met Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace to discuss global antisemitism and hostages taken by Hamas. The Vatican, maintaining neutrality, disputed Herzog’s claim that Pope Leo invited him, clarifying it grants audiences upon request.

Leo, elected in May as the first American pope, condemned Israel’s “immoral” and “disproportionate” attacks in Gaza, criticizing the “collective punishment” of Palestinians. He demanded a permanent ceasefire and safe humanitarian aid access. The October 7, 2023, Hamas attack killed 1,200 and took 251 hostages; 50 remain, with 20 believed alive.

Herzog, in his ceremonial role, sought Vatican support to combat antisemitism. Leo pressed for adherence to humanitarian law regarding Gaza’s civilians. Herzog’s motorcade passed Swiss Guards to enter the meeting, where he focused on antisemitism and hostage releases, while Leo emphasized protecting Palestinian civilians and delivering aid.