New Delhi, Aug. 16 -- Pope Leo on Sunday called for an end to violence against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank, as attacks by Israeli settlers and tensions in the territory continue to rise.

Speaking after at his residence in Castel Gandolfo outside Rome, the Pope urged the international community to take steps towards a two-state solution, describing it as necessary for a "fair and lasting peace."

"I renew my appeal for an end to the repeated violence against the Palestinian civilian population in the West Bank," Pope Leo said.

He also called for urgent international action to advance the establishment of two states, Israel and Palestine, living alongside each other.

The Pope's remarks came amid reports of intensified...