Vatican City, May 27, 2025: The Vatican has strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli bombardments in Gaza, describing the humanitarian situation in the besieged Palestinian territory as “unacceptable.”
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, made the remarks in an interview with Vatican News on Tuesday, calling for immediate adherence to international humanitarian law and the urgent delivery of aid to the civilian population.
“What is happening in Gaza is unacceptable. International humanitarian law must always apply, and apply to everyone,” said Cardinal Parolin. “We call for an end to the bombardments and for the necessary aid to reach the population.”
The cardinal urged the international community to intensify efforts to end the “tragedy” unfolding in Gaza. He also called for the release of all hostages held by Hamas, underlining the importance of protecting civilian lives on all sides of the conflict.
In response to a question regarding the Vatican’s potential role in facilitating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, Cardinal Parolin reiterated the Holy See’s offer to host negotiations, stressing the Vatican’s willingness to provide a neutral and protected venue.
“This was not a mediation—because mediation must be requested by the parties,” he clarified. “In this case, there has only been a public offer of hospitality for a possible meeting.”
He noted that other locations, such as Geneva, are also being considered, but emphasized that the location was secondary to the urgent need to begin substantive negotiations.
“First and foremost, a truce is needed to end the devastation, the destroyed cities, the civilians losing their lives. Then it is urgent to reach a stable, just, and lasting peace, one accepted and agreed upon by both sides,” Parolin added.
Cardinal Parolin concluded by affirming the Pope’s commitment and that of the entire Holy See to peace-building efforts and supporting dialogue and negotiation.
