Netanyahu Discusses Recent Issues with Pope Leo XIV
Israeli Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a conversation with Pope Leo XIV on Friday, addressing several recent issues that have emerged in Israel.
According to reports, Israel expressed sorrow after a missile struck a Catholic Church in Gaza earlier this week, resulting in three fatalities and ten injuries.
The Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement saying:
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Pope Leo today.
He conveyed Israel’s condolences regarding the unfortunate incident where errant ammunition hit the Holy Family Church in Gaza. Netanyahu expressed genuine sadness for the families affected by this tragedy.
Additionally, he provided updates on Israel’s attempts to negotiate a hostage release and a potential 60-day ceasefire in Gaza.
Other concerns were also raised during the discussion:
- A Palestinian American Christian was assaulted by a group of Jewish extremists in Judea and Samaria, which prompted a response from Ambassador Mike Huckabee.
- Some Christian groups faced visa issues, leading to Huckabee’s intervention, which only came after he threatened to publicly criticize Israel.
- There were concerns about the mistreatment of Christian tourists in Jerusalem’s old town, which drew criticism from both Israelis and the Vatican.
Israel has taken steps to protect Christians and Druze individuals in southwestern Syria from radical Sunni militants threatening the region under the Syrian government.
Overall, Israel maintains itself as a haven for Christians in the Middle East, ensuring access to their holy sites.
