Vatican Criticizes Israeli Response to Hamas Attacks as 'Disproportionate'

Following the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, the Vatican's condemnation of the Israeli military's actions sparks formal complaint from Israel.

Israel has formally complained to the Vatican following remarks by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who described the situation in Gaza as 'carnage' and criticized the Israeli military operation as disproportionate.
Cardinal Parolin's comments came after the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, prompting a strong Israeli military response that has resulted in 30,000 deaths.
The Israeli Embassy accused Hamas of turning Gaza into 'the biggest terrorist base ever seen,' asserting that the Israeli armed forces are acting in accordance with international law.
Vatican editorial director Andrea Tornielli and Pope Francis have both emphasized the need for a balanced view, with Tornielli calling for an end to the 'carnage' and the Pope reaffirming the special relationship between Christians and Jews.
At least 1,200 Israelis were killed and around 250 were taken hostage in the Oct. 7 Hamas raid, while at least 28,576 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes since.