Vatican Guard Under Scrutiny Following Alleged Antisemitic Incident
The Vatican's prestigious Swiss Guard, renowned for protecting the Pope, faces serious allegations after one of its members was accused of making antisemitic gestures towards two Jewish women. The incident occurred on 29 October as visitors gathered for a general audience with Pope Leo in St Peter's Square.
Allegations of Contempt During Historic Event
According to accounts given to Austrian Catholic news agency Kathpress, the alleged confrontation took place at a side entrance to the famous square. Michal Govrin, an author and theatre director from Tel Aviv, reported that a Swiss Guard "noticeably hissed at us with deep contempt, 'les juifs' (the Jews)" as she and colleague Vivian Liska entered the area.
When challenged about his behaviour, the guard reportedly made a spitting gesture in their direction with clear disdain. Both women were part of a Jewish delegation attending a significant event marking the 60th anniversary of Nostra aetate - the Catholic Church's landmark declaration on relations with non-Christian religions.
Vatican Responds With Internal Investigation
Corporal Eliah Cinotti, speaking as spokesperson for the Swiss Guards, confirmed on Monday that the guard in question has been placed under internal investigation. "This is standard procedure", Cinotti stated, emphasising the need to verify the professionalism of guards on duty.
The spokesperson suggested the incident began when "a person asked for a photo" of the guard, though he firmly added that the Swiss Guard completely distances itself from any form of antisemitism.
Pope's Strong Condemnation of Antisemitism
The timing of the alleged incident proved particularly significant as it occurred during the same audience where Pope Leo delivered a powerful condemnation of antisemitism. The Pope, elected in May following the death of Pope Francis, emphasised that the Catholic Church "decries hatred, persecutions, displays of antisemitism, directed against Jews at any time and by anyone".
During his address, Pope Leo highlighted that the initial focus of Nostra aetate had been towards the Jewish world. The 1965 document represented a historic step forward, formally repudiating the centuries-old charge that Jewish people collectively bore responsibility for Christ's death.
The investigation comes amid continued Vatican efforts to address religious tensions, building upon Pope Francis's legacy of condemning antisemitism while also expressing solidarity with Palestinians and criticising Israel's military actions in Gaza.
