Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas held a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome on Friday, December 13, 2024.
The discussions centered on the escalating tensions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, with President Mattarella expressing concern over Israeli settlements that violate United Nations resolutions and exacerbate violence against Palestinians.
In his remarks, Mattarella reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to a two-state solution as the foundation for lasting peace in the region. “We hope for an immediate two-states, two-peoples solution. Without this prospect, there will always be outbreaks of violence,” he stated. He also emphasized the need for the Palestinian Authority to take on a central role once a ceasefire in Gaza is achieved.
The visit follows Abbas’s Thursday meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican, where the Pope and the Palestinian leader discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Abbas urged continued advocacy for international recognition of the State of Palestine.
Meanwhile, Pope Francis met with Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Friday. Their private discussion addressed Lebanon’s ongoing political and economic crises, with the Pope highlighting the need for unity among Lebanese officials. The meeting also reflected on Lebanon’s recovery efforts after the recent conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, which resulted in significant displacement and damage.
The series of high-level meetings underscores the international community’s focus on the Middle East’s political and humanitarian challenges, as leaders seek paths toward peace and stability.
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