The Vatican

León XIV denounces social injustices and calls for peace

León XIV advocates for a two-state solution to the conflict in the West Bank, while denouncing social injustices.

Editorial Staff Omnes-August 17, 2026-Reading time: 2 minutes
Leo XIV

The Pope blesses a child on August 15, 2026, in Castel Gandolfo (OSV News photo / Francesco Fotia, Reuters)

During the recitation of the Angelus In Castel Gandolfo on August 16, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the Gospel passage about the Canaanite woman to denounce social injustices and issue a strong call for international peace.

In his address, the Pontiff emphasized that we can learn «humility and determination» from the figure of the Canaanite woman, recalling that through faith we come to understand that «God’s table is set for everyone and that no one is left with only crumbs.».

The Pope has asserted that «the inequalities, discrimination, and barriers that trample on the dignity of so many of God’s sons and daughters are unbearable.» He also called on the Church not to be afraid to «share the peace of Christ beyond the boundaries that have already been drawn.».

Urgent Call for a Two-State Solution in Palestine

After the Angelus prayer, the Holy Father turned his attention to the conflict in the Middle East. Leo XIV once again condemned the suffering of the civilian population: «I reiterate my call for an end to the repeated acts of violence against the Palestinian civilian population in West Bank".

In light of this escalation, he has urged diplomats and global institutions to act swiftly: «I urgently call on the international community to ensure progress toward a two-state solution, in the interest of a just and lasting peace.».

Sports as a Force for Peace and a Greeting to Pilgrims

The Pope also mentioned the Mediterranean Games, which will begin this week in Taranto, with athletes from Africa, Asia, and Europe participating. The Pontiff expressed his hope that this sporting event would become «a harbinger of peace and brotherhood among the peoples of this region and the entire world.»

 Finally, he addressed a few words of affection to the faithful in attendance and sent his blessing to the participants in the pilgrimage to the Shrine of Piekary Śląskie, in Upper Silesia.

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