The Vatican has confirmed that the Pontifical Swiss Guard is conducting an internal investigation following reports of an alleged antisemitic incident involving one of its members.
According to Reuters, two Jewish women reported that a Swiss Guard made a derogatory gesture toward them and referred to them as “the Jews” while they were entering Vatican City for Pope Leo XIV’s general audience on October 29 in St. Peter’s Square.
In a statement released Monday, the Vatican said the Swiss Guard had begun an internal review “after receiving a report concerning an incident that occurred at one of the entrances to the Vatican City State, during which elements were allegedly identified that were interpreted as having antisemitic connotations,” Reuters reported.
The Vatican added that, based on a preliminary reconstruction, the episode appeared to stem from “a disagreement over a request to take photos at a guard post leading into the Vatican from Rome,” according to Reuters.
The October 29 audience carried particular significance, as it marked the 60th anniversary of a landmark Church document on interreligious dialogue. Representatives from multiple faith traditions were present, emphasizing unity and respect across religious lines.
During his address that day, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church’s clear stance against antisemitism, saying the Church “does not tolerate antisemitism and fights against it,” Reuters reported.
The Pontifical Swiss Guard, the world’s smallest standing army, has protected popes since 1506. Dressed in their distinctive Renaissance-style uniforms, they are responsible for guarding the Pope and the entrances to Vatican City.
The Vatican emphasized that the review remains ongoing as the Church continues to promote peace and mutual respect among all peoples of faith.
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