An Israeli overseas ministry spokesman described Francis’s intervention as “notably disappointing as they’re disconnected from the true and factual context of Israel’s battle towards terrorism – a multi-front battle that was pressured upon it beginning on October 7”.
“Sufficient with the double requirements and the singling out of the Jewish state and its folks,” he added.
“Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind youngsters whereas making an attempt to homicide Israeli youngsters; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, together with a child and kids, by terrorists and abusing them,” the Israeli assertion mentioned.
This was a reference to the Hamas Palestinian militants who attacked Israel, killed many civilians and took hostages on October 7, 2023, triggering the Gaza battle.