Israel demands that the Pope should choose sides

Pope. Photo: rbc

Israel wants Pope Francis to take a clear stance in the conflict between Israel and HAMAS in the Gaza Strip, as reported by infovaticana.com.

Israel's Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, and later the President of the country, Isaac Herzog, expressed their concern about the neutrality Pope Francis has maintained regarding the Israel-Palestine war.

Eli Cohen, in a conversation with the Vatican's Secretary for Relations with States, Paul Gallagher, stated that Israel "expects the Vatican to express a clear and unambiguous condemnation of Hamas terrorists' actions against women, children, and the elderly, simply because they are Jewish."

On the other hand, President Isaac Herzog mentioned that the Vatican's position on the war remains too "cautious" at this time. He said, "I would like to hear a very strong statement from the Holy See."

The Israeli leader recalled that in recent months, he has intervened several times to protect the freedom of Christians in Israel in the face of attacks by ultra-conservative Jews. He added, "I would like to hear the Pope make a clear statement about the children."

Previously, the UOJ reported that Israeli Ambassador to the Vatican criticized the statements made by the hierarch of the Roman Catholic Church in Jerusalem about the war.

Read also

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Black, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.

Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again

A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.

OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience

More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.

Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors

The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.

Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies

ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.

Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says

Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.