Cardinal Pizzaballa described the conflict in Gaza as a “disaster” marked by “human devastation” and a “brutalization of mutual relations” between Israelis and Palestinians.
Newsroom (26/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) As the second anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war approaches, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, described the ongoing conflict in Gaza as a “disaster” marked by “human devastation” and a “brutalization of mutual relations” between Israelis and Palestinians. In an interview with German Catholic news agency KNA, the cardinal painted a grim picture of the situation, noting a profound loss of trust and humanity. “There is no longer any trust, no human interest of one side in the other. It is an inhumanity that is almost incomprehensible,” he said.
No Clear Path to Peace
When asked about potential resolutions to the conflict, Cardinal Pizzaballa deferred to political actors, stating, “This is a matter for local and international politics.” He emphasized that the faithful can contribute through prayer and humanitarian aid, urging sustained international pressure through media to ensure the crisis remains in the global spotlight. “We must not remain silent about these events,” he told KNA.
Supporting Gaza’s Christian Community
The cardinal addressed the plight of Gaza’s roughly 450 remaining Christians, underscoring efforts to provide humanitarian support, particularly medical supplies, amid a dire health crisis. “We want to help as many people as possible in Gaza, not just the Christian community,” he said. However, he noted the precarious state of infrastructure, explaining that even a powerful pressure wave could destroy the old, unstable buildings in the region.
Looking to the future of Gaza’s Christian community, Cardinal Pizzaballa expressed cautious optimism. “Certainly not all of them will leave,” he said, noting that some lack the means or desire to relocate. “The parish center will undoubtedly remain. There will still be a Christian community in Gaza.”
A Bleak Outlook Amid Extremism
The cardinal admitted that envisioning future projects is challenging in the current climate, where “the only people talking at the moment are the extremists.” He added, “You can’t predict the future here. It is therefore difficult to say a word of hope — which is actually our wish.” Despite this, the church continues to provide humanitarian aid, maintain schools, and support employment initiatives, though he acknowledged the difficulty of these efforts.
Global Church Solidarity
Cardinal Pizzaballa highlighted the support received from the universal church, including material aid and solidarity letters from dioceses worldwide, including in Africa. He also noted Pope Leo’s engagement, stating, “He speaks publicly about our situation. He does what he can do.” Vatican diplomacy, he added, is working to address the crisis within its limitations, advocating for clear but respectful dialogue.
The cardinal stressed the need for more than just humanitarian aid for Palestinians, emphasizing their desire for recognition of their dignity as a people. While he views a two-state solution as the ideal, he admitted it seems increasingly unrealistic.
Jubilee Year Debt Forgiveness
In a significant gesture for the Jubilee Year of Hope, the Latin Patriarchate announced on September 14 that it would forgive all family debts to its schools for years prior to the 2024-2025 academic year. Cardinal Pizzaballa described the decision as costly but necessary, estimating the total at around 10 million shekels (approximately $3 million), half of which represents unrecoverable debts. “The debt cancellation applies to all families; we cannot differentiate,” he told KNA.
On a Potential Papal Visit
Regarding a possible papal visit to the Holy Land, the cardinal emphasized the need for the right political, social, and religious conditions. When asked if Pope Leo could serve as a mediator for peace, he clarified, “It is not the task of the church to mediate directly. Its task is to help mediate.”
- Raju Hasmukh with files from OSV News
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