In a recent move, the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (COP), a prominent U.S.
Jewish group, urged Pope Francis to “refrain from making incendiary comments” regarding the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
This comes after the Pope made remarks that some Jewish leaders believe mischaracterized Israel’s military actions.
Concerns Over the Pope’s Remarks on Israel’s Defense
The COP sent a letter dated December 30, expressing their concern about Pope Francis’ comments made during his Christmas address to the Roman Curia.
The Jewish leaders, while acknowledging the Pope’s calls for peace and compassion, argued that his statements distorted Israel’s legitimate military actions.
In particular, they felt that his remarks, which were made in the context of Israel’s defensive actions against Hamas, had the potential to fuel antisemitism.
Pope’s Comments on the War and Civilian Suffering
During his December 21 address, Pope Francis expressed his sorrow over the violence, including the death of children in the conflict.
He was quoted saying, “Yesterday the [Latin] patriarch of Jerusalem was not allowed into Gaza, as had been promised; and yesterday children were bombed.
This is cruelty. This is not war. I wanted to tell you this because it touches my heart.”
The Pope’s message was seen by many as highlighting the suffering of civilians but did not acknowledge the complexities of the situation, particularly Israel’s right to defend itself.
Israel’s Right to Defend Itself
The COP leaders pointed out that the Pope’s comments failed to address the atrocities committed by Hamas during the October 7 attack, where over 1,200 Israeli civilians were killed and 251 were taken hostage.
As of now, 101 hostages remain in captivity.
They also stressed that the Pope’s words overlooked Hamas’ use of human shields and its strategy of embedding itself within civilian infrastructure, further endangering Gaza’s population.
In their letter, the COP urged the Pope to reconsider his stance and to avoid statements that could inadvertently contribute to a rise in antisemitic sentiments or skew the broader understanding of Israel’s defense efforts.