The Vatican has told a UN conference that a Two-State Solution is the only way forward in Israel’s conflict with Gaza.

Archbishop Gabriele Caccia is the Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations.

He told a conference gathered in New York that a Two-State Solution “based on secure and internationally recognized borders, is the only viable and equitable path toward a just and lasting peace.”

The Vatican emphasised that it condemns the 7th October attacks on Israel, saying: “Terrorism can never be justified.”

However, Archbishop Caccia suggested that Israel’s response has overstepped the mark, telling the UN that self-defence must fall within “traditional limits of necessity and proportionality.”

He called attention to the plight of believers in Gaza, such as those who are members of the bombed Holy Family Church, saying: “[The attacks were] deeply concerning given that Christians in the region have long played a vital role as a moderating and stabilizing presence, promoting dialogue and peace.”

Archbishop Caccia also emphasised that Jerusalem must be regarded as a unique and sacred city, given that both Palestinians and Israelis would regard it as their capital.

The Vatican’s support for two states follows the UK, France, and Canada’s pledges to recognise Palestine at the UN gathering in September, on the conditions that Israel fails to uphold a ceasefire, and that Gaza holds 2026 elections without the input of Hamas.