News Desk: Israeli President Isaac Herzog is set to visit the Vatican on Thursday for a one-day meeting with Pope Leo XIV, following what remains an unclear genesis of the invitation—each side attributes the initiative differently.

Key Details of the Upcoming Visit:

• Invitation Discrepancy:
  The Israeli presidency states that Herzog’s visit is occurring “at the invitation of the Pope”. In contrast, the Vatican maintains that its customary approach is to grant requests for papal audiences from heads of state, not to issue invitations proactively.

• Agenda Highlights:
  The meeting will include discussions with Pope Leo and Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin. Core topics will focus on:

  • Efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza

  • Combating global antisemitism

  • Safeguarding Christian communities in the Middle East

  • Broader geopolitical matters.

• Context of the Visit:
  Pope Leo, the first U.S.-born pontiff, has recently intensified his appeals for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and expanded humanitarian assistance.

• Past Engagement:
  Although not a new acquaintance, this will mark Herzog’s first substantive meeting with Pope Leo—beyond brief previous encounters such as during the papal inauguration.

What to Watch For

• Clarification on diplomatic protocols—how the Vatican and Israel negotiate such high-level meetings.

• Outcome of discussions—particularly around humanitarian aid, interfaith protection, and ending violence in Gaza.

• Broader implications for Vatican-Israel relations and regional diplomacy during an especially sensitive time.