Israel\u2019s foreign minister, Eli Cohen spewed staunch words toward the Vatican for not issuing a \u2018clear and unequivocal\u2019 condemnation of the \u2018murderous terrorist actions\u2019 of Hamas terrorists who poured into Israel last week and killed more than 1,300 Israelis in a surprise attack, according to reports.<\/p>\n
The Times of Israel reported that Cohen told the Holy See\u2019s Secretary for Relations with States Paul Gallagher that the people of Israel \u2018expects the Vatican to come out with a clear and unequivocal condemnation of the murderous terrorist actions.\u2019<\/p>\n
\u2018It is unacceptable that you put out a statement expressing worry primarily for Gazan civilians while Israel is burying 1,300 who were murdered,\u2019 Cohen said, according to the Foreign Ministry.<\/p>\n
On Oct. 7, Hamas-led forces crossed the Israel-Gaza border while residents were sleeping, dragging people into the street, taking some hostage while beading and killing others.<\/p>\n
Over 1,300 Israelis were killed in the attack, with thousands more wounded and many taken hostage by Hamas, and raped, tortured and murdered.<\/p>\n
Since the attack, officials with the Catholic Church have issued a range of reactions.<\/p>\n
\u2018I follow with apprehension and sorrow what is happening in Israel,\u2019 Pope Francis said the day after the attack. \u2018I express my solidarity with the relatives of the victims, and I pray for all those who are experiencing hours of terror and anguish.\u2019<\/p>\n
The Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem issued a statement while fighting continued last Saturday.<\/p>\n
\u2018The operation launched from Gaza and the reaction of the Israeli Army are bringing us back to the worst period in our recent history,\u2019 the Latin Patriarchate said. \u2018The too many casualties and tragedies, which both Palestinians and Israeli families have to deal with, will create more hatred and division, and will destroy more and more any perspective of stability.\u2019<\/p>\n
Just before the fighting began, Gallagher was reportedly planning on visiting Israel, which would have been the first bilateral visit by a Vatican foreign minister.<\/p>\n
Last Wednesday, Pope Francis affirmed Israel\u2019s right to defend itself, but questioned whether it would lead to sustainable peace.<\/p>\n
\u2018I continue to follow what is happening in Israel and Palestine with tears and apprehension: many people killed, others injured,\u2019 the pope said. \u2018I pray for those families who have seen a feast day transformed into a day of mourning, and I ask that the hostages be released immediately.\u2019<\/p>\n