RAMALLAH, June 28, 2025 – The President of the State of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas, praised recent remarks made by Pope Leo XIV, in which the Pope condemned the erosion of international law and humanitarian principles.

“It is unfortunate,” the Pope stated, “that the power of international law and humanitarian law is no longer binding and has been replaced by those who impose their will through force.”

The Pope described this trend as a disgrace and unworthy of humanity, especially for the world’s leaders.

President Abbas expressed his deep appreciation for the Pope’s repeated calls to end the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza. He referred to the Pope’s statements as "important and courageous," reflecting a commitment to justice, international law, and human dignity.

The President noted that the Pope’s latest remarks coincide with the 10th anniversary of the Vatican’s recognition of the State of Palestine. He emphasized that these comments reaffirm a longstanding commitment to a just peace grounded in international legitimacy and legal principles.

"These positions serve as a powerful call to the international community to take urgent action to halt genocide, attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites, colonial terrorism, and military aggression by occupying forces, so that the world may enjoy justice, peace, and stability."