Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Thursday as Israel pushes ahead with its planned offensive on Gaza City, despite growing calls for a ceasefire.
Herzog’s convoy arrived at the Apostolic Palace, where he was received by the Swiss Guards before the closed-door meeting with the new pope, who was elected in May following the death of Pope Francis.
Ahead of the meeting, Herzog’s office said discussions would focus on efforts to free hostages held by Hamas, tackle global anti-Semitism, and protect Christian communities across the Middle East.
However, the Vatican disputed claims that the visit was initiated by the Pope, saying the meeting was granted at Herzog’s request, not by invitation.
“The Holy See does not extend invitations to heads of state; it responds to their requests for audiences,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni clarified earlier in the week.
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has maintained calls for a permanent ceasefire, the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, and respect for international humanitarian law. He has also criticised Israel’s military actions, describing them as “collective punishment” and warning against the forced displacement of Palestinians.
The Vatican has so far tried to remain diplomatically neutral but has repeatedly urged both sides to release hostages and protect civilians caught in the conflict.
