Cardinal Parolin advocates two-state solution at UN

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, addressed the United Nations in New York, advocating for a two-state solution involving Israel and Palestine within internationally recognized borders as the only path to lasting peace. He emphasized that humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts cannot substitute for a just and permanent political resolution.

Parolin expressed serious concern regarding the expansion of Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, noting that such actions hinder the creation of two states. He also condemned violence against Christians in the West Bank and reiterated the call for an internationally guaranteed special status for Jerusalem to protect holy sites and the rights of believers from all three major religions.

Regarding the situation in Gaza, the Cardinal noted that while ceasefires and hostage returns represent progress, over two million residents continue to face extreme poverty and military attacks. Additionally, Parolin addressed the climate crisis, calling for financial and technological support for coastal communities and small island nations threatened by rising sea levels.