Pope calls for end to West Bank violence against Palestinians

Pope Leo called on Sunday for an end to violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, citing a surge in attacks by militant settlers and a siege in the village of Qusra. Israeli settlers reportedly encircled houses, cutting off water and electricity, which rights groups say is an effort to seize more land. The Pope renewed his appeal for an end to the violence and urged the international community to take action to advance a two-state solution for a fair and lasting peace. The Vatican has long supported the concept of a Palestinian state, recognized by over 150 UN member states. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has overseen extensive settlement construction in the West Bank, which Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated is intended to thwart the possibility of a Palestinian state. The United Nations and most governments view Israeli settlements as illegal under international law concerning military occupation, though Israel disputes this characterization.