The Vatican has launched an internal investigation after a member of the Swiss Guard, the elite corps responsible for protecting the pope, was accused of making an antisemitic remark toward an Israeli author.
In a statement Monday, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the Swiss Guard had been informed of “an incident at one of the entrances to Vatican City State, during which elements interpreted as having antisemitic connotations were detected.”
According to preliminary findings, the incident stemmed from “a disagreement over a request for a photograph at a guard post,” Bruni said. He added that an internal inquiry was underway “in accordance with principles of confidentiality and impartiality.”
Israeli author Michal Govrin told the Austrian Catholic news agency Kathpress last week that she had been verbally harassed by a guard while visiting St. Peter’s Square on Oct. 29 with a colleague.
“The guard openly whistled at us with deep contempt, saying, ‘the Jews,’” she said. When they confronted him, “he pretended to spit in our direction with obvious disdain.”
Govrin said she immediately filed a complaint with the guard’s superiors, who apologized and promised to investigate the matter.
In its statement, the Swiss Guard reaffirmed its “constant commitment to carrying out its mission with respect for the dignity of every person and the fundamental principles of equality and non-discrimination.”
Founded in 1506 by Pope Julius II, the Swiss Guard is composed of young Swiss citizens who serve a minimum of 26 months protecting the pope. The guards, known for their blue, yellow and red Renaissance-style uniforms, are stationed at several entrances to Vatican City.