JERUSALEM, Aug 9: Following a moving visit to the Gaza Strip, His Eminence Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, spoke in a special meeting with a correspondent for the newspapers Al-Seyassah and Arab Times. He shared his firsthand observations of the destruction, suffering, and the steadfast dignity of the people of Gaza. The Cardinal walked among the wounded and the displaced, visited churches, mosques, schools, shelters, and damaged institutions, and listened to the sighs of a people living in profound pain. Yet amidst the rubble, he found an exceptional strength, unity, and unwavering faith. In this interview, the Cardinal not only offers a testament of mercy but also directs a moral appeal to the conscience of the world, calling for justice, peace, and urgent humanitarian response:-
Question: How would you describe the scale of human suffering you witnessed during your visit to Gaza?
Answer: We saw a people burdened by the weight of war– among the wounded and displaced – who still bear the image of God. Their grief is profound and allen compassing, yet their dignity and inner strength remain firmly rooted.
Q: What did you observe regarding the destruction of streets and buildings?
A: Amidst the shattered walls of places like St. Porphyrius Church, as well as the Holy Family Church, mosques, and destroyed neighborhoods, we witnessed the tangible effects of the conflict. The destruction of holy and civilian sites testifies to the intensity of the suffering people have endured.
Q: Was this your first visit to Gaza since October 7, 2023? What were your feelings after the visit?
A: This is the third time I have visited Gaza since October 7, 2023. The purpose of the visit was not political but pastoral: to visit and comfort the faithful, to walk among the wounded, and to stand with those in pain. These were moments dominated by sadness, but also full of a steady hope rooted in faith and solidarity.
Q: After the visit, you said, “We saw a human dignity that refuses to die...” Can you elaborate on that?
A: Yes, even amid the pain, we found a dignity that refuses to perish.
Q: Could you elaborate on that?
A: Yes, even in the midst of pain we found an unbreakable dignity. The faithful of Gaza mourn, but they also feed and heal, they pray and empathize. Their resilience, rooted in love and faith, is a living testament to the power of the human spirit in the face of continuous suffering.
Q: Can you tell us more about the spirit of unity among the people of Gaza during these crises?
A: Indeed. In churches, shelters, and especially in hospitals, Muslims and Christians come together, not separated by religion, but united by need and mercy. These places are living testimonies to humanity, brotherhood, and solidarity.
Q: What are your observations regarding the damage to clean water sources?
A: Although this was not mentioned in detail in the statement, it’s clear that basic human needs such as water have been severely damaged. The crisis goes beyond visible destruction to the silent suffering of children and families deprived of the essentials of daily life.
Q: What is your opinion on France’s intention to recognize the State of Palestine?
A: While our statement does not include specific political developments, we call on the international community to act, not to remain silent. Recognition and justice must be based on conscience and a genuine pursuit of peace.
Q: Do you expect a potential change in the United States’ position that could help the people of Gaza?
A: We hope so. The United States has a pivotal and fundamental role in this crisis. To everyone in power, we say, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” True change will come when humanity precedes politics, and peace precedes rigid stances.
Q: How do you view the position of developed countries that advocate for animal rights while remaining silent in the face of the human tragedy in Gaza?
A: It is a painful paradox in the culture of this era in some parts of the world. “Silence in the face of suffering is a betrayal of conscience.” A just world cannot tolerate selective compassion. The dignity of a human being must triumph over everything.
Q: What is your assessment of the Arab countries’ position toward the suffering of the people of Gaza?
A: Although we do not mention specific countries, the Church recognizes and encourages all acts of mercy, solidarity, and assistance. We call for the continued courageous support from all Arab nations for their brothers and sisters in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Q: What is the number of Christians in Gaza? Have the churches been damaged?
A: While the numbers are not precise, the Christian community in Gaza is small but firm in its faith. Currently, there are about 500 Christians. Before the war began, their number was 1,017.
Q: What is your opinion on the delay in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza?
A: As I said after the visit, “Humanitarian aid is not just necessary; it is a matter of life or death. Preventing it is not a delay; it is a death sentence. Every hour that passes without food, water, medicine, or shelter causes deep harm.”
Q: How do you view the refusal of the residents in Gaza to be forcibly displaced? Is Israel still exerting pressure in this regard?
A: Yes. We still do not know what the next phase will lead to. Decisions will be made in these days, and we are worried.
Q: In your opinion, what is the real path to ending these tragedies? Is there a need to increase humanitarian aid?
A: First, there must be an immediate ceasefire and the allowance of humanitarian aid. Schools must resume, and hospitals must be reopened. We first need steps on the ground to revive the minimum level of life and to rebuild something resembling normality. Only then can major political issues be discussed.
Q: What is your opinion of Kuwait’s supportive stance toward Gaza and the Palestinian cause? What message do you have for its leadership? Are there plans for a new visit to Gaza?
A: To Kuwait and its leadership: Your support is clear, and your solidarity is appreciated. We encourage the continuation of this commitment stemming from human dignity and moral clarity. Your role is essential.
Hungry Gazan children struggling to get food.
Conclusion of the Interview: This interview not only embodies the sorrow of a people but also conveys the voice of a shepherd who chose presence over absence, and solidarity over silence . Cardinal Pizzaballa’s words call upon the world to reclaim its conscience and act with courage, not calculation, and with mercy, not indifference. In this spirit, His Eminence directs a heartfelt and official appeal to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al- Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait; to His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah; and to the esteemed government of the State of Kuwait. For decades, the State of Kuwait has always been at the forefront of humanitarian solidarity and a beacon of mercy, justice, and generosity in the Arab world. Whether through emergency aid, diplomatic support, or moral leadership, Kuwait has chosen to walk alongside the oppressed and to make the voices of those silenced by injustice and war heard. Today, as the people of Gaza endure one of the most devastating moments in their history, the Cardinal urges Kuwait’s leadership to continue its noble mission. May Kuwait remain a guardian of human dignity, may it raise the voice of peace, defend the right to life, and provide assistance to those in most need. May the name of Kuwait, in the eyes of humanity and the world, remain a symbol of mercy, conscience, and steadfast solidarity.
