Cardinal Parolin accuses Israel of “ongoing massacre” in Gaza

The Vatican's Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, has sharply criticized the Israeli military operation in the Gaza Strip, describing it as a “continuing massacre.”

This is one of the strongest reactions from the Catholic Church to the Israeli offensive against Hamas. Parolin also pointed out that while Israel has the right to self-defense, it must respect the principle of proportionality.

He pointed out that the Israeli army is acting against a defenseless population living in ruins. He also criticized the inaction of the international community and called for an end to arms deliveries that are used against civilians.

The Israeli Embassy to the Holy See responded by stating that Parolin's words were “well-intentioned” but inappropriately one-sided, as they overlooked Hamas' refusal to release hostages.

Pope Leo XIV, who had hardened the Vatican's public stance on the war in Gaza after Francis' death, fully supported Parolin's remarks. According to reports from Gaza, the Israeli offensive has claimed more than 67,000 victims so far, most of them civilians.

(reuters, mja)