Holy See Urges Renewed Commitment to Peace and Protection for Palestinian Refugees

Archbishop Gabriele Caccia addressed the United Nations with a renewed appeal for stable peace in the Middle East, emphasizing that the Holy See continues to support a two state vision that allows Israelis and Palestinians to live securely within recognized borders. He described the region as a place shaped by deep spiritual and cultural heritage but burdened by recurring violence that has trapped generations in fear and instability. His remarks stressed that peace cannot emerge from force but must grow through dialogue, cooperation and sustained multilateral engagement. The Archbishop warned that without patient diplomacy the cycle of destruction will only repeat, leaving families, institutions and entire communities without the conditions needed for a dignified future. He also called on global leaders to resist polarisation and pursue solutions rooted in shared responsibility rather than geopolitical rivalry, insisting that only inclusive negotiation can create space for reconciliation and lasting security in the region.

The Archbishop directed significant attention to the work of UNRWA, describing its mission as indispensable for millions of Palestinian refugees across Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine. He praised the agency’s long standing presence in places where families rely on its schools, clinics, food support and social services during periods of intense hardship. He highlighted the particular vulnerability of children, women and the elderly and expressed sorrow for the UNRWA staff who died while serving communities caught in conflict. He insisted that humanitarian corridors must remain open and protected and underlined that uninterrupted access to aid is a moral and legal obligation under international law. The Archbishop strongly condemned attacks on UNRWA facilities and reminded member states that hospitals, schools and houses of worship must remain safe spaces that shield civilians rather than becoming targets. He urged all parties involved in the conflict to uphold humanitarian principles and safeguard institutions essential to the survival and wellbeing of displaced families.

The Holy See’s message also focused on the need to protect UNRWA’s mandate and reinforce the core principles that shape its mission. The Archbishop stated that neutrality, independence and humanity are essential if the agency is to remain a trusted source of stability for hundreds of thousands who would otherwise have nowhere to turn. He noted that these values must guide daily operations, staff selection and on the ground decision making to ensure continued confidence in the agency’s integrity. He appealed to member states to increase political and financial support, warning that any weakening of UNRWA would directly endanger the people it serves. He added that any conversation about adjusting its mandate must take place within the General Assembly so decisions reflect the collective will of the international community. By urging renewed commitment to both peace negotiations and humanitarian protection, the Holy See framed the moment as one requiring courage, vision and international unity as the region faces profound uncertainty.