Pope Leo, six months into his papacy, is still adjusting to the immense responsibilities of his role, often appearing emotional and contemplative during significant moments, such as his visit to the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul. On his first foreign trip, he has begun to find his voice, making strong public statements on global issues. He criticized powerful nations for escalating conflicts and called for the rejection of using religion to justify violence or extremism. Addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he emphasized the necessity of a Palestinian state while reaffirming the Vatican's friendship with Israel and its role as a mediator.