Pope's Silence on Iran Still Non-Issue

"Netanyahu Asks Pope to Condemn Iran"
A6, Friday 5/15/09,
By Rachel Donadio

As this article progresses, the pope’s silence on Iran’s genocidal intentions takes a back seat to his supposed disagreement with Israel over the establishment of a Palestinian state. With this, the article reflects an unfortunate reality.

For the pope to use his moral authority to call out the glaring genocidal hatred of the Iranian regime, (hatred he has so far ignored), he is getting “entangled in politics”. Shouldn’t this be the responsibility of the pope? At the same time, it's not considered politics for the pope to be calling for a Palestinian state?

Donadio further skews reality with her description of Iran’s stated intentions towards Israel. “In the past, Iran’s president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has called for Israel’s destruction, although on at least one occasion last year, he used somewhat less severe language, saying Israel would collapse. (my emphasis)

The Iranian regime’s (not just Ahmadinejad’s) call for Israel’s destruction is a frequent occurrence. Writing that Ahmadinejad has “in the past” called for Israel’s destruction, gives a false impression of moderation. Furthermore, the regime’s rhetoric forecasting Israel’s collapse in no way mitigates its own war against Israel...it's meant to enhance it.

That the Vatican has full diplomatic ties with Iran was importantly pointed out. Donadio also made the point that “Benedict has not directly spoken about Iranian statements on Israel,” yet writes “but the Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, has.” (my emphasis)

This automatic point-counterpoint is a disturbing pattern. Iran has called for Israel’s destruction, “although…” The pope hasn’t responded to this call, “but…” Since the original points weren’t sufficiently rebutted, they should’ve been left alone. Nothing needed to be added. That there may be another point of view does not necessarily warrant its inclusion.