In a significant diplomatic development, the Israeli Foreign Ministry has deleted its condolences post for Pope Francis, following his death on Monday, April 21, 2025. The post, which appeared on the official social media platform X, simply read, "Rest in peace, Pope Francis. May his memory be a blessing." However, the ministry quickly deleted the message without providing an official explanation or comment regarding the decision.

The removal of the post has raised eyebrows, especially given the Pope’s long-standing position on Israel’s war in Gaza, which has remained a point of contention. Pope Francis, who was an outspoken critic of the conflict, had called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing his concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Additionally, he had repeatedly condemned the rise of antisemitism and called on Hamas to release the Israeli hostages it holds.

Despite the ministry's silence on the matter, reports suggest that Israel’s ambassadors, particularly in Catholic-majority countries, expressed their frustration over the deletion. They were reportedly angry about the public diplomatic snub, especially given the Pope's status as a global religious leader. Furthermore, the Israeli President, Isaac Herzog, posted a message of condolences on X, marking his respect for the late Pope. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not made any public statements regarding Pope Francis’s death, which has raised further questions about Israel's diplomatic handling of the situation.

The Israeli government has also taken broader steps following the deleted post. The Times of Israel reported that Israel's diplomatic missions worldwide were instructed to remove any similar posts. Additionally, Israeli officials were directed not to sign condolence books at Vatican embassies, a move that aligns with the Ministry's more cautious stance toward expressing formal grief.

The relationship between Pope Francis and Israel has been one of complex diplomacy. While the Pope had historically maintained close relations with the Jewish community and condemned antisemitism, his criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza created tension. The Pope had continuously advocated for peace and reconciliation in the region, urging both sides to find a lasting resolution. In his Easter message, Pope Francis had conveyed solidarity with the people of Gaza, especially the Christian community, who faced severe hardship due to the ongoing violence.

In his last public appearance, the Pope also reiterated his call for a ceasefire and urged Hamas to release Israeli hostages. His message focused on the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Gaza and his desire for an end to the conflict that had already led to thousands of deaths and significant destruction. The war, which erupted on October 7, 2023, had caused the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 Israeli citizens, with 59 hostages still believed to be in captivity, 24 of whom are thought to be alive.

Despite Pope Francis's critical stance on Israel’s military operations in Gaza, his calls for peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians and his commitment to interfaith dialogue have earned him significant respect globally. His criticism, particularly regarding Israel’s handling of Gaza, had, however, been a source of tension, particularly as the conflict intensified.

The decision to delete the condolences post may reflect Israel’s ongoing frustration with the Pope’s calls for ceasefire and his outspoken criticism of the war. It may also be indicative of the delicate balance the Israeli government is trying to maintain between diplomatic courtesy and political realities on the ground.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that the Israeli Foreign Ministry's actions seem to contradict its President’s condolences, highlighting potential differences in political strategy between the presidency and the prime minister's office.

Public opinion in Israel remains divided on the Pope’s legacy and his role in the Israel-Palestine conflict. While many admire his efforts for peace, others feel his statements were too critical of Israeli actions during the war.

As the international community continues to digest the Pope's passing, Israel's response to his death will likely continue to evolve, especially as both Israeli and Palestinian authorities face increased pressure to resolve the ongoing violence in Gaza. Israel’s diplomatic efforts, especially in the Catholic world, may now focus on mending any potential rift caused by the ministry’s decision to delete the post, particularly in light of the Pope’s significant global influence.

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