Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, issued a renewed plea for peace in Gaza and Ukraine during a visit to Rome’s Bambino Gesù Hospital
Newsroom (08/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, issued a renewed plea for peace in Gaza and Ukraine during a visit to Rome’s Bambino Gesù Hospital, where he blessed an image of Pier Giorgio Frassati, set to be canonized alongside Carlo Acutis by Pope Leo XIV on September 7. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Parolin addressed the escalating crises in both regions, emphasizing the Holy See’s consistent call for dialogue and humanitarian action.
Gaza: A Call for Ceasefire and Protection
The Holy See has repeatedly advocated for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, and the initiation of constructive negotiations. However, Cardinal Parolin lamented the absence of progress, noting, “There is currently no dialogue.” Speaking to Italian journalist Daniele Rocchi of SIR Agency, he underscored the Vatican’s persistent efforts to foster peace. “Ours is a voice that continues to be raised,” Parolin said, referencing a recent meeting with Israel’s president where the Holy See pressed for solutions to the “terrible and tragic situation in Gaza.”
Parolin expressed particular concern for Gaza’s most vulnerable, including those sheltered at the local parish, which has become a refuge for hundreds since hostilities began. “There are many disabled people there who cannot be transferred elsewhere,” he said. “We hope there will be respect for those who have decided to stay and who cannot do otherwise, and that this appeal to protect them will be heard.”
Ukraine: Vatican Offers Venue for Peace Talks
Turning to the war in Ukraine, Cardinal Parolin reiterated the Holy See’s commitment to facilitating dialogue. He recalled Pope Leo XIV’s offer to host peace talks at the Vatican, signaling “a great willingness to help find all the ways and means that can put an end to this carnage.” Parolin’s remarks come as coalition countries reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine’s security, while the Vatican continues to advocate for diplomacy to halt the violence.
A Unified Plea for Peace
The Cardinal’s statements reflect the Vatican’s broader mission to advocate for peace amid global conflicts. By aligning its voice with the international community, the Holy See hopes to amplify calls for ceasefires, humanitarian access, and negotiations. As Parolin concluded, the Vatican remains steadfast in its pursuit of solutions to end the suffering in both Gaza and Ukraine, urging all parties to embrace dialogue as a path to peace.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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