Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV spoke with Isaac Herzog, President of Israel, on Wednesday, December 17, reiterating the Catholic Church’s strong condemnation of all forms of antisemitism in the wake of the recent terrorist attack on the Jewish community in Sydney, Australia. The conversation came as Christians prepare for Christmas and Jewish communities celebrate Hanukkah.
According to the Holy See Press Office, the telephone exchange focused on the tragic incident that occurred on December 14 in Bondi Beach, when two men targeted a Hanukkah celebration, leaving 15 dead and 25 injured. Pope Leo emphasized the continuing threat of antisemitism worldwide, stressing that such hatred sows fear not only in Jewish communities but in society at large.
The Pope also called for renewed perseverance in ongoing peace processes in the Middle East and underlined the importance of intensifying humanitarian aid for those affected by conflict. “Enough with these forms of antisemitic violence!” he said in a separate public statement. “We must eliminate hatred from our hearts.”
Earlier, on December 15, Pope Leo had prayed for the victims of the Sydney attack during a ceremony with donors of the Vatican’s Christmas tree and Nativity Scene, reinforcing his message of peace and solidarity. In addition, he sent a telegram to express condolences to the Australian people, invoking divine blessings of peace and strength for the victims, their families, and the wider community.
Through his words and actions, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to combating antisemitism, promoting dialogue, and supporting efforts that foster peace, understanding, and protection for vulnerable communities worldwide.