**List of Ambassadors of Israel to the Holy See**
**Definition**
The list of ambassadors of Israel to the Holy See comprises the official diplomatic representatives appointed by the State of Israel to the Holy See, the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Catholic Church in Rome. These ambassadors serve as the primary liaison between Israel and the Vatican, managing diplomatic relations, fostering interfaith dialogue, and addressing issues of mutual concern.
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## Introduction
The diplomatic relationship between the State of Israel and the Holy See represents a significant chapter in modern international relations, particularly given the historical, religious, and political complexities involved. The Holy See, as the central governing body of the Roman Catholic Church, holds a unique position in global diplomacy, and its relations with Israel have evolved considerably since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.
Israel and the Holy See formally established diplomatic relations in 1993, marking a milestone in their bilateral interactions. Since then, Israel has appointed a series of ambassadors to the Holy See, each tasked with navigating the sensitive and multifaceted relationship between the Jewish state and the Vatican. This article provides a comprehensive list of these ambassadors, contextualizes their roles, and explores the significance of their diplomatic missions.
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## Historical Background
### Early Relations Between Israel and the Holy See
Before the formal establishment of diplomatic ties, relations between the Jewish people and the Catholic Church were marked by centuries of theological tension, persecution, and complex interactions. The creation of the State of Israel in 1948 introduced new dynamics, as the Vatican initially refrained from recognizing Israel, largely due to concerns about the status of Jerusalem and the rights of Christian minorities in the region.
The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) and the promulgation of *Nostra Aetate* in 1965 marked a turning point in Catholic-Jewish relations, promoting dialogue and reconciliation. However, formal diplomatic relations between Israel and the Holy See were only established in 1993, under the papacy of John Paul II and the Israeli government led by Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
### Establishment of Diplomatic Relations in 1993
The signing of the Fundamental Agreement between the Holy See and the State of Israel on December 30, 1993, officially established diplomatic relations. This agreement addressed issues such as the legal status of the Catholic Church in Israel, the protection of holy sites, and the promotion of mutual understanding.
Following this agreement, Israel appointed its first ambassador to the Holy See, inaugurating a new era of formal diplomatic engagement. The role of the ambassador has since been pivotal in managing the complex interplay of religious, political, and cultural factors that characterize Israel-Vatican relations.
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## Role and Responsibilities of the Ambassador
The ambassador of Israel to the Holy See serves as the official diplomatic envoy, representing Israeli interests at the Vatican. The ambassador’s responsibilities include:
– Facilitating communication and cooperation between Israel and the Holy See.
– Promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding between Jewish and Catholic communities.
– Addressing issues related to the status and protection of Christian holy sites in Israel and the Palestinian territories.
– Engaging in discussions on broader Middle Eastern peace efforts and humanitarian concerns.
– Representing Israel in various Vatican ceremonies and events.
Given the unique nature of the Holy See as both a religious authority and a sovereign entity, the ambassador’s role requires diplomatic sensitivity, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of religious and geopolitical issues.
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## List of Ambassadors of Israel to the Holy See
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1993, Israel has appointed several ambassadors to the Holy See. The following is a chronological list of these ambassadors, along with their terms of service:
### 1. Samuel Hadas (1994–1997)
Samuel Hadas was the first Israeli ambassador to the Holy See. His appointment followed the establishment of diplomatic relations, and he played a foundational role in setting the tone for future interactions. Hadas was instrumental in initiating dialogue and cooperation on religious and political matters.
### 2. Oded Ben-Hur (1997–2000)
Oded Ben-Hur continued the work of his predecessor, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing issues related to the status of Christian holy sites. His tenure coincided with ongoing peace efforts in the Middle East.
### 3. Yosef Neville Lamdan (2000–2003)
Yosef Neville Lamdan’s ambassadorship was marked by efforts to deepen interfaith dialogue and promote mutual understanding between the Vatican and Israel. He also engaged in discussions concerning the impact of regional conflicts on religious communities.
### 4. Mordechay Lewy (2003–2008)
Mordechay Lewy served during a period of significant challenges, including tensions arising from the Second Intifada. He worked to maintain open channels of communication and to advocate for peaceful resolutions.
### 5. Zion Evrony (2008–2012)
Zion Evrony’s tenure was notable for his emphasis on cultural diplomacy and educational initiatives aimed at fostering Jewish-Catholic relations. He also addressed issues related to the preservation of holy sites.
### 6. Oren David (2012–2016)
Oren David focused on enhancing cooperation in areas such as humanitarian aid and interreligious dialogue. His ambassadorship coincided with Pope Francis’s election, which brought renewed attention to Vatican-Israel relations.
### 7. Rivka Ravitz (2016–2021)
Rivka Ravitz was the first female Israeli ambassador to the Holy See. Her tenure emphasized the importance of women’s roles in diplomacy and interfaith engagement. She also worked on initiatives related to social justice and peacebuilding.
### 8. Raphael Schutz (2021–Present)
Raphael Schutz currently serves as the Israeli ambassador to the Holy See. His mission includes continuing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, promote dialogue, and address contemporary challenges facing both Israel and the Catholic Church.
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## Significance of the Ambassadorship
### Religious and Cultural Impact
The ambassadorship to the Holy See holds profound religious and cultural significance. The Vatican’s influence extends beyond its political sovereignty, impacting millions of Catholics worldwide. The ambassador’s role in fostering Jewish-Catholic dialogue contributes to reconciliation and mutual respect, addressing historical grievances and promoting shared values.
### Political and Diplomatic Importance
Politically, the relationship between Israel and the Holy See affects broader Middle Eastern diplomacy. The Vatican’s positions on issues such as the status of Jerusalem, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and religious freedoms carry weight in international forums. The ambassador acts as a crucial intermediary in navigating these sensitive topics.
### Challenges and Opportunities
The ambassadorship faces challenges including differing perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the protection of holy sites, and theological differences. However, it also presents opportunities for collaboration in humanitarian efforts, cultural exchange, and peace initiatives.
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## Conclusion
The list of ambassadors of Israel to the Holy See reflects the evolving and multifaceted relationship between the Jewish state and the Vatican. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1993, these ambassadors have played vital roles in bridging religious divides, advancing diplomatic dialogue, and addressing complex regional issues. Their work continues to shape the ongoing partnership between Israel and the Holy See, contributing to a broader understanding and cooperation between two historically significant entities.
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## See Also
– Holy See–Israel relations
– Vatican diplomacy
– Interfaith dialogue between Jews and Catholics
– Fundamental Agreement between the Holy See and the State of Israel
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## References
*Note: This article is based on publicly available information and historical records regarding Israel-Holy See diplomatic relations and the appointments of Israeli ambassadors to the Vatican.*
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**Meta Description:**
This article provides a comprehensive list of Israeli ambassadors to the Holy See, detailing their roles and the historical context of Israel-Vatican diplomatic relations since 1993.