Statement at the Security Council

Open Debate on “The situation in the Middle East,

including the Palestinian question”

New York, 24 October 2023

Mr. President,

In recent weeks, there has been a distressing escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine, resulting in deplorable levels of suffering. Recalling that war is always a defeat for humanity because it hinders “the human family’s innate vocation to fraternity”, [1] my Delegation would like to make three points.

First, the Holy See in the most absolute terms and unequivocally condemns the terrorist attack carried out by Hamas and other armed groups on 7 October against the population of Israel. Thousands were barbarically killed and wounded. Others were taken hostage. As Pope Francis clearly stated, terrorism and extremism fuel hatred, violence and revenge, and only cause mutual suffering[2]. These crimes demonstrate utter contempt for human life and are unjustifiable.[3] My Delegation reiterates the call of Pope Francis for the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza.[4]

Second, the Holy See reminds that the criminal responsibility for terrorist acts is always personal and can never be attributed to an entire nation or people.[5] The right to self-defense in every conflict  must always comply with international humanitarian law, including the principle of proportionality.[6]

Third, the Holy See expresses grave concern for the unfolding humanitarian disaster in Gaza, which has claimed thousands of lives and has displaced hundreds of thousands of people. The “total siege” imposed on Gaza has caused indiscriminate suffering among the population, including due to shortages of food, fuel and medical supplies.[7] The Holy See appeals for the urgent facilitation and the continuation of humanitariancorridors so that aid can reach the entire population.[8]

Mr. President,

Amidst the escalating violence, it is imperative for the authorities of the State of Israel and the State of Palestine to demonstrate audacity to renew their commitment toward a peace based on justice and respect for the legitimate aspirations of both sides. While the path of dialogue appears narrow at present, it is the only viable option for a lasting end to the cycle of violence that has engulfed that land, so dear to Christians, Jews and Muslims. The Holy See remains convinced that the two-State solution still offers hope for such a peace.

I thank you, Mr. President.

[1] Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti, 3 October 2020, 26.

[2] Cf. Pope Francis, General Audience, 11 October 2023.

[3] Cf. Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church, 514.

[4] Cf. Pope Francis, General Audience, 11 October 2023.

[5] Cf. Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church, 514.

[6] Cf. Idem., 501.

[7] Pope Francis, General Audience, 11 October 2023.

[8] Cf. Pope Francis, Angelus, 15 October 2023.