Holy See Gives 'Firmest Possible Condemnation' to Slaying of US Ambassador

VATICAN CITY, SEPT. 13, 2012 (Zenit.org).- The Vatican today expressly condemned the attack on the US embassy in Benghazi, Libya, which resulted in the death of the US ambassador and three other officials.

In a follow-up to a declaration Wednesday from the Vatican press office, today's statement took a harsher tone in regard to the violence. The initial statement focused mainly on the need to respect religious sensitivities.

"The very serious attack organised against the United States diplomatic mission in Libya, which led to the death of the ambassador and of other functionaries, calls for the firmest possible condemnation on the part of the Holy See. Nothing, in fact, can justify the activity of terrorist organisations and homicidal violence. Along with our sadness, mourning and prayers for the victims, we again express the hope that, despite this latest tragedy, the international community may discover the most favourable ways to continue its commitment in favour of peace in Libya and the entire Middle East," read today's statement.

The Vatican press office message from Wednesday alluded to the fact that the Benghazi attack is believed to be in response to a US-produced amateur film that ridicules Mohammed.

"The serious consequences of unjustified offense and provocations against the sensibilities of Muslim believers are once again evident in these days, as we see the reactions they arouse, sometimes with tragic results, which in their turn nourish tension and hatred, unleashing unacceptable violence," the statement noted.

It also asserted that "profound respect for the beliefs, texts, outstanding figures and symbols of the various religions" is essential if people hope to coexist peacefully.