Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost addresses the group from the principle central loggia balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for the primary time, after the cardinals ended the conclave, within the Vatican, on Could 8, 2025. —Picture by Tiziana Fabi | Agence France-Presse
JERUSALEM – Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Thursday congratulated newly elected Pope Leo XIV and stated his nation welcomed the prospect of stronger ties with the Vatican.
“We look ahead to enhancing the connection between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians within the Holy Land and around the globe,” Herzog posted on X.
“Could your papacy be considered one of constructing bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples.”
Relations between Israel and Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, have been strained for the reason that battle in Gaza broke out after Hamas’s assault on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Francis condemned Hamas’s assault on Israel, but additionally commonly criticised Israel’s conduct throughout its navy marketing campaign within the Gaza Strip, at one level describing it as “cruelty.”
Whereas Herzog swiftly paid tribute to Francis on the day of his loss of life on April 21, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu waited greater than three days to precise his condolences.
Herzog on Thursday stated he hoped for “the rapid and secure return of the hostages nonetheless held in Gaza, and a brand new period of peace in our area and around the globe”.
Your subscription couldn’t be saved. Please strive once more.
Your subscription has been profitable.
