The Vatican is concerned about the current escalation of global conflicts. The Vatican's top diplomat, Cardinal Parolin, spoke to the press about the current situation on the sidelines of an event.
CARD. PIETRO PAROLIN
Vatican Secretary of State
Original in Italian
We are on the edge of the abyss; international law is already being trampled. Yes, I believe we are on the edge of the abyss — I share this analysis, in the sense that there is an escalation that is frightening.
The analysis Parolin refers to is that of Sergio Mattarella, the President of Italy, who compared the atmosphere of recent weeks to that of 1914, the year World War I began.
On one hand, there's what happened in Qatar, where a building housing Hamas leaders was attacked.
This is compounded by Moscow's threats against European countries. In fact, on September 10, NATO had to shoot down several Russian drones that violated Poland's airspace during an attack on Ukraine.
When asked what the Holy See is doing amid these conflicts, Parolin responded:
CARD. PIETRO PAROLIN
Vatican Secretary of State
We are doing everything possible. Our diplomacy is precisely trying to make contact with everyone, so to speak — with all the main players. We talk, we insist, etc. These are the tools we have available to try to stop this escalation.
Moving from Europe to the Middle East, Gaza was also discussed during the press conversation.
Parolin was asked about the meeting that Pope Francis and later the Vatican Secretariat of State had with the President of Israel on September 4.
CARD. PIETRO PAROLIN
Vatican Secretary of State
He assured us that there will be no occupation of Gaza. He spoke explicitly in this regard, saying that the claims being made are not true — that there will be no occupation of Gaza. That’s what he told us. Do I believe him? I believe in the good faith of everyone. Then we will have to see what actually happens.
On another note, the European position on Gaza was also addressed. The European Parliament has urged countries to recognize Palestine, but deliberately avoided using the word "genocide."
Meanwhile, a group of more than 300 priests and bishops have signed a statement titled “Priests Against Genocide.”
So far, the Holy See has refrained from taking a stance on the use of that term.
CARD. PIETRO PAROLIN
Vatican Secretary of State
There’s not much to comment on. They probably found in what’s happening the elements necessary to justify that definition. We, for the time being, have not done so. We'll see — it’s necessary to study things and ensure the proper conditions are in place before making such a statement.
Lastly, the topic of the flotilla (aid convoy to Gaza) was raised. Parolin did not go into detail, simply expressing support for any initiative that can help the people of Gaza.
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