In a move that may worry the supporters of Israel, the Vatican announced it was finalizing a treaty with the “State of Palestine.” According to the Holy See, the treaty was to ensure religious liberty in the territory, especially for the Catholics living there. “The agreement will be submitted to the respective authorities for approval,” a statement by the Vatican said. The move is not especially surprising, given that the Vatican, spanning a couple popes, has been referring to Palestine as a state for several years now. Hot Air’s Ed Morrissey notes that the Vatican has an interest in ensuring religious Liberty in the region, given that the Christian population in that area is hundreds of years old, and the region contains locations dear to Christianity. Director of the Anti-Defamation League Abraham Foxman writes this decision erodes the possibility of a two-state solution to Israeli-Palestinian conflict because it further disincentives Palestine to recognize the legitimacy of Israel (the biggest obstacle to peace). However, the greater threat to peace in the Middle East is the United Nation’s warming recognition of Palestine. It’s the UN that has the political leverage that can force a two-state solution that harms Israel. More…