Following the somber announcement of Pope Francis’ death, Israel’s Foreign Ministry briefly posted a message on X, offering condolences. However, the post was removed without any explanation shortly afterward. This move coincided with global mourning and seemed to hint at underlying tensions between Israel and the Vatican, brought about by the Pope’s critique of Israel’s actions in the ongoing Gaza war. The ministry offered no comments on the deletion.
Typically quick to acknowledge the passing of prominent international figures, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refrained from commenting for four days following the Pope’s death. When he finally released a statement, it was notably brief. In contrast, President Isaac Herzog, whose role is largely ceremonial, was the first to express formal condolences, recalling Pope Francis’ dedication to faith and compassion.
The Pope’s tenure had seen a gradual improvement in Vatican-Israel relations, especially following his 2014 visit to the Holy Land. However, the circumstances changed significantly after the conflict in Gaza erupted following a deadly attack by Hamas on southern Israel in October 2023. Though Pope Francis expressed empathy for Israeli victims, he characterized Israel’s retaliations in Gaza as “immoral” and has called for investigations into potential genocide allegations—charges that Israel staunchly denies.
Wadie Abunassar, who leads an organization representing Christians within Israel and the Palestinian territories, noted that Pope Francis played the role of a truthful friend, offering honest perspectives that might not always align with official stances.
Balancing close historical ties with Israel and a moral commitment to highlight humanitarian consequences in Gaza, Pope Francis maintained a cautious equilibrium during the conflict, as noted by Amnon Ramon of the Jerusalem Institute for Policy Research. His empathetic connection with the local parish priest in Gaza, an Argentinian compatriot, was emblematic of his broad concerns.
Historically, Israel’s relationship with the Vatican has been complex, influenced greatly by WWII events where questions about the Vatican’s actions, or lack thereof, during the Holocaust remain contentious. However, over the decades, perceptions have evolved, enabling the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1993. Despite this, ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly following shifts in Israel’s governmental stance, introduced new strains in these relations.
During the war, Pope Francis consistently communicated opposition to violence while emphasizing the plight of hostages in Gaza. Rev. David Neuhaus, who served as a spokesperson during the Pope’s visit in 2014, pointed out Francis’ advocacy for non-violent resolution and empathy toward both Israeli and Palestinian suffering.
An underlying current in this dynamic is the emergence of increased hostilities faced by Christians in the area, an issue highlighted by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa in a 2023 interview. He critiqued the Israeli government’s policies for exacerbating difficulties for Christians. Despite the significance of Pope Francis’ death, Israel’s formal representation at his funeral was limited to the Vatican ambassador, a decision influenced by logistical and religious observances.
Oren Marmorstein of the Foreign Ministry emphasized this decision was not a reflection of diplomatic tensions, but practical considerations. Yet, local Christian leaders like Abunassar expressed dissatisfaction, underscoring that, given the Pope’s global stature and influence within Israeli society, he deserved more prominent recognition.
Pope Francis’ emphasis on mercy and dialogue contributed significantly to advancing interfaith relations, notably with Orthodox Christianity, as evidenced by his historical meeting with Patriarch Bartholomew I in Jerusalem. Reflecting on his legacy, Neuhaus hopes the next Pontiff will continue this path of mercy and unity in a heavily divided world.
As tributes pour in, including a special requiem mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the broader hope within the Catholic and interfaith communities is for a continuation of the themes central to Pope Francis’ papacy—compassion, unity, and peace.