Cardinal Pietro Parolin Condemns Israel Attack, Calls for Diplomacy and Justice

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, has strongly condemned the attack on Israel that transpired on Saturday, October 7th, labeling it a "terrible and despicable" act. The attack has deeply saddened the Pope, who expressed his condolences for all those affected by the recent surge of violence. In his opening address at a three-day conference titled "The New Documents from the Pontificate of Pope Pius XII and their Meaning for Jewish-Christian Relations," Cardinal Parolin emphasized the need for diplomacy, peace, and justice in the face of the ongoing conflict.

Photo credit: Taylor Brandon

Highlights

By Catholic Online (NEWS CONSORTIUM)
10/9/2023 (1 year ago)

Published in Middle East

Keywords: Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Israel attack, Pope's condolences, Vatican Secretary of State, Jewish-Christian Relations, diplomacy, justice

Cardinal Parolin began his address by expressing his disbelief at having to start his speech with the somber duty of sharing the Holy Father's sorrow regarding the situation in Israel. He recounted the terrible attack that occurred on the day of the Sabbath, during the celebration of Simchat Torah, a day of joy for the Torah. Many Israeli brothers and sisters were subjected to a horrifying assault, resulting in casualties, injuries, and kidnappings, leaving many in grave danger.

The Holy See, Cardinal Parolin assured, is closely monitoring the situation and is gravely concerned about the conflict, which has led to the loss of lives among Palestinians in Gaza, in addition to causing numerous displacements and injuries. He reaffirmed the Holy See's support and prayers for the affected families and all innocent civilians caught up in the violence.

Quoting Pope Francis, Cardinal Parolin emphasized that war is always a defeat of human dignity and does not provide a solution to any problem. He decried the presence of terrorism, violence, barbarism, and extremism, which thwart the legitimate aspirations of both Palestinians and Israelis. He expressed hope that the guns will fall silent and that reason will prevail, allowing for a pause and a reflection on the path to peace in Israel and Palestine.

Before the conference, Cardinal Parolin spoke with journalists, urging the establishment of a foundation for coexistence between Palestinians and Israelis. He emphasized the importance of implementing diplomatic instruments available to the international community, seeking a roadmap to peace that can prevent recurring conflicts with increasing intensity.

Cardinal Parolin conveyed his deep concern about the upheavals happening globally, especially during this tragic period with the outbreak of what he referred to as a "real war" in the Holy Land. He lamented that history seems to be repeating itself, as humanity appears to have learned nothing from the tragedies of the 20th century.In seeking a way out of the current crisis, Cardinal Parolin stressed the necessity of everyone's commitment to limiting the unexpected conflict. He acknowledged that the emotional impact of the situation made it difficult to think clearly but highlighted the eventual need for a moment of detachment and collective reflection.

Cardinal Parolin appealed to the importance of finding conditions that promote justice. He referenced Pope Pius XII's words, stating that "peace is the fruit of justice." Therefore, resolving the tragic conflict between Palestinians and Israelis based on justice is crucial for establishing lasting peace and fostering fruitful coexistence between the two nations.