The Vatican’s Secretary of State, addressed the recent phone call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Pope Leo, urging transparency and action following the devastating attack on the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza.
Newsroom (21/07/2025, Gaudium Press )In a poignant interview with Italy’s public broadcaster RAI TG2 Post on Friday evening, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, addressed the recent phone call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Pope Leo, urging transparency and action following the devastating attack on the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza. The strike, which occurred last Thursday, claimed three lives and injured ten others, including the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli.
Describing the Gaza conflict as “a war without limits,” Cardinal Parolin expressed profound concern over the escalating violence and its toll on civilians. “How can a population like that of Gaza be destroyed and starved like this?” he asked, highlighting the breach of proportionality in the ongoing conflict. He called for a thorough and public investigation into the attack, noting initial Israeli claims that it was a mistake. “It’s essential that this investigation be carried out seriously and that its findings be shared publicly,” Parolin emphasized, adding that “after so many words, we finally need to see actions.”
The Cardinal also raised questions about the intent behind the strike, suggesting it could reflect a deliberate targeting of Christian communities, which he described as a “moderating force” in the region. “If that’s the case, it would mean there’s an intention to eliminate any element that might help lead to at least a ceasefire, and eventually, peace,” he said.
Commenting on the phone call between Netanyahu and Pope Leo, Parolin viewed it as a positive step. “It was absolutely necessary to explain to the Pope directly and to inform him about what happened, given the gravity of the incident,” he said. However, he stressed that words must translate into tangible outcomes, expressing hope that Netanyahu’s assurances of a ceasefire could soon materialize.
On the broader role of the Holy See in mediating global conflicts, Parolin reiterated the Vatican’s openness to facilitation but underscored the challenges. “Mediation only works when both sides accept it,” he explained, noting that political will is critical to ending wars. “The cost of war is terrible for everyone in every way,” he added, lamenting the lack of progress in various peace efforts.
Despite the grim outlook, Parolin remained cautiously hopeful, referencing Netanyahu’s claim that a ceasefire might be near.
The Cardinal’s remarks reflect the Vatican’s deep concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its unwavering call for peace amid a conflict that continues to defy resolution.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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