Pope in Israel calls for two-state solution

israel; Pope Benedict arrived in Israel on Monday and called for a two-state solution to its conflict with the Palestinians, a reassertion of Vatican policy that is at odds with the new Israeli government.

"I plead with all those responsible to explore every possible avenue in the search for a just resolution of the outstanding difficulties, so that both peoples may live in peace in a homeland of their own, within secure and internationally recognised borders," he said in a speech at Tel Aviv's airport.

The pope did not mention the word "state", something new Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted promising the Palestinians, despite pressure from Washington and other allies. His reference to two homelands within international borders made clear, however, he was reaffirming the Church's position in favour of establishing a Palestinian state.

Ben-Gurion airport, Reuters