Image: Niwa Limbu X@NiwaLimbu1988
By Emma Cole | Staff Writer with Agencies
ROME — The Vatican has launched an investigation into an alleged antisemitic incident involving a Swiss Guard during a papal audience on October 29, 2025, after two Jewish women accused the guard of making a spitting gesture and using derogatory language in St. Peter’s Square. The incident is reportedly being treated with seriousness, given its disturbing nature, particularly since it took place on the same day Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to combating antisemitism.
According to Israeli writer and theater director Michal Govrin, the altercation occurred as she and a colleague, both part of an international Jewish delegation attending the papal audience, passed by a Swiss Guard at the entrance to St. Peter’s Square. Govrin described how the guard allegedly hissed the phrase “Les Juifs” (French for “the Jews”) as they walked by. Govrin was visibly shocked by the comment and immediately confronted the guard. However, the guard denied making the remark, telling Govrin’s colleague, “No, I didn’t,” before adding, “You are lying.”
The situation escalated when the guard allegedly made a spitting sound in their direction, further intensifying the confrontation. “We were totally shocked,” Govrin said in a statement. “Such an incident of Jewish hatred inside the Vatican?! In contrast to the Pope’s important words strongly condemning anti-Semitism and calling for collaboration and peace?”
The Vatican quickly responded to the allegations, with spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirming that the Pontifical Swiss Guard was investigating the matter. Bruni explained that the Swiss Guard had received a report detailing the incident, with elements suggesting antisemitic overtones. He noted, however, that a preliminary reconstruction of events indicated the disagreement may have initially stemmed from a request to take photos at a guard post.
The Vatican’s response emphasizes that the Pontifical Swiss Guard, a centuries-old military corps tasked with protecting the Pope, remains committed to upholding the values of respect, equality, and non-discrimination. “In keeping with its centuries-old tradition of service, the Pontifical Swiss Guard reaffirms its ongoing commitment to ensuring that its mission is always carried out with respect for the dignity of each person,” Bruni said.
The timing of the incident is particularly sensitive. The papal audience on October 29 was dedicated to marking the 60th anniversary of the Vatican’s landmark 1965 declaration on Catholic-Jewish relations. The declaration, Nostra Aetate, officially rejected the accusation of deicide against Jews and laid the foundation for improved relations between the Catholic Church and the Jewish community.
During the papal audience, Pope Leo XIV spoke passionately about the Church’s commitment to combating antisemitism, stating that “The Church does not tolerate antisemitism and fights it,” which was met with prolonged applause from the audience. This strong condemnation of antisemitism only added to the shock of the reported incident.
Founded in 1506, the Pontifical Swiss Guard is the world’s oldest standing military corps, charged with guarding the Pope and the Vatican. The Guard is renowned for its distinctive Renaissance-era uniforms and its role in the defense of the Vatican.
As part of the investigation, the Vatican is likely to review whether the guard involved had acted in accordance with the Guard’s long-standing traditions of discipline and respect for human dignity. The Swiss Guard has always been expected to embody values of service and professionalism in their role as protectors of the Holy See.
The alleged incident has sparked outrage, particularly from Jewish organizations, who are calling for swift accountability. The World Jewish Congress and other groups have expressed concerns over the seriousness of the allegations, stressing that such incidents, if proven true, could undermine the Vatican’s efforts to build better relations with the Jewish community and tarnish the Pope’s strong stance against antisemitism.
While the investigation continues, the Vatican has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that any misconduct by its personnel, including the Swiss Guard, will be addressed appropriately. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in the fight against discrimination and the importance of maintaining vigilance, even in the most sacred spaces.
The investigation into the alleged antisemitic incident is likely to have far-reaching implications for the Vatican and its relationship with the Jewish community. As the Vatican works to uncover the facts, it remains to be seen how this event will affect the Church’s efforts to combat antisemitism and foster understanding between different religious and cultural groups.
The Vatican’s swift response and pledge to hold those responsible accountable will be crucial in determining whether this incident is an isolated occurrence or a sign of deeper problems that need to be addressed within the institution. As the investigation unfolds, both Jewish and Catholic communities will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that upholds the values of dignity, respect, and tolerance for all.
Staff Writers at Open Chronicle produce in-depth, field-informed reporting on defense, diplomacy, cultural transformation, and global affairs. Known for clarity, accuracy, and analytical depth, they connect breaking developments to broader historical and strategic contexts. In addition to frontline journalism, Staff Writers also contribute to the Open Chronicle Encyclopedia, crafting authoritative entries that preserve critical knowledge and enrich public understanding.