West Bank Flashpoint: Pope Leo XIV renewed his appeal for an end to repeated violence against Palestinian civilians, urging the international community to push urgently for a two-state solution as settler attacks and sieges in places like Qusra and Taybeh intensify. Vatican Diplomacy & Mediation: The Holy See framed the calls as part of its long-standing push for “just and lasting peace,” while reporting highlighted Israel’s restrictions on access to Taybeh and UN concerns about conditions enabling settler violence. Vatican Finance Shakeup: Pope Leo XIV appointed Princess Gisela Bergmann of Liechtenstein to the Council for the Economy, adding a young lay expert with engineering and investment banking experience to the body that reviews the Holy See’s budget and oversees Curia finances. Vatican Coins & Jubilee Merchandising: The Vatican City State Mint issued new coins featuring Pope Leo XIV’s portrait and a St. Francis commemorative, marking the first pope portrait on circulating coins in nearly a decade. AI, Ethics, and Peace Policy: Pope Leo XIV’s World Peace Day 2027 theme—“Disarming Technology, Serving Peace”—puts AI and preventive responsibility at the center of the Vatican’s push for safer governance of powerful tools. Church Schools & AI Literacy: Thai Catholic educators urged stronger human formation so students can navigate AI-driven change and avoid digital isolation and social fragmentation. Sports as Soft Power: The Holy See will participate in the Mediterranean Games via Athletica Vaticana, using sport as a platform for dialogue and intercultural encounter. Local Economy Watch: Visitation Academy in New York is set to be sold to real estate investors for over $42m, raising questions about transparency and redevelopment plans.