Vatican expresses concern after US decision on Israel

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican is expressing concern that “recent decisions” could undermine regional stability in the Middle East, in an apparent reference to the U.S. reversal of position on Israeli settlements.

The Vatican on Wednesday didn’t specifically cite the U.S. conclusion that Israel’s West Bank settlements don’t violate international law. But the reference appeared clear when it spoke of “the recent decisions that risk undermining further the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and the already fragile regional stability” in the Middle East.

The Holy See reiterated its support for a ‘’two-state solution for two peoples, as the only way to reach a complete solution to this age-old conflict.”

It said it supports Israel’s right to “live in peace and security within the borders recognized by the international community” and supports “the same right that belongs to the Palestinian people, which must be recognized, respected and implemented.”