Pope Francis addresses Ukraine, Middle East in Christmas Day message: 'May the sound of weapons be silenced'
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Israel Summons Vatican Envoy over Pope's 'Cruelty' Remarks
Above: Pope Francis attends an audience, at the Apostolic Palace, with cardinals and bishops of the Roman Curia for the annual exchange of Christmas greetings on Dec. 20, 2024 in Vatican City, Vatican. Image copyright: Vatican Media/Vatican Pool via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
These are disappointing remarks from the pontiff that misrepresent the facts on the ground and single out the Jewish people. It is well known that this war started after Hamas launched terror attacks on Israel and that, in an effort to protect themselves, its operatives hide among the civilian population.
Pro-Palestine narrative
After numerous reports of Israeli snipers targeting children, and many days of air strikes targeting hospitals, tent encampments, and the civilian population — killing upwards of 45K people — the pope was fully justified in using his platform to seek to bring an end to this grave situation.