Pope Francis has urgently appealed for the immediate release of Israelis and foreign nationals held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Catholic News Service reported the Pope’s call on Wednesday, where he also affirmed Israel’s right to defend its citizens against terrorism.
“I ask that the hostages be released immediately,” stated Pope Francis during his weekly audience at the Vatican. Hamas claims to have captured more than 100 Israelis during the October 7 terror raid and taken them back to Gaza.
The pontiff expressed sorrow over the surprise attack by Hamas, which has claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis, occurring on the joyous holiday of Simchat Torah. He prayed for the families whose day of celebration turned into a day of mourning.
While denouncing terrorism and extremism, Pope Francis emphasized that these actions would not lead to a resolution of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. Instead, they would fuel hatred, violence, and vengeance, causing suffering on both sides.
“One who is attacked has the right of self-defense,” affirmed Francis, acknowledging Israel’s right to protect its citizens. However, he also voiced concerns about the dire situation faced by Palestinians in Gaza due to a “total siege,” resulting in numerous innocent victims.
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