But this doesn’t mean Pizzaballa is apolitical. He has long spoken out against the wall dividing the West Bank and Jerusalem — but also criticized Palestinian leaders for constantly blaming Israel for all issues, even once quipping, “If the weather isn’t good, the cause is occupation.” After Oct. 7, Pizzaballa condemned Hamas’ brutality and offered himself as a hostage in exchange for kidnapped Israeli children. Yet he also called for an end to the Israel-Hamas war and to Israeli occupation, wearing a kaffiyeh while in Bethlehem on Christmas.

While both Palestinians and Israelis have criticized Pizzaballa’s statements for insufficient support, this, in a way, shows he has successfully managed to remain moderate in a tense position. Perhaps he can just as carefully navigate Vatican factions, where he is also perceived as a frustratingly neutral figure on divisive doctrinal questions.