Herzog mourns death of Pope Francis, who ‘saw great importance in fostering strong ties with the Jewish world’

President Isaac Herzog offers his condolences to Christians around the globe and in Israel “on the loss of their great spiritual father, His Holiness Pope Francis.”

In a statement, Herzog calls Frances “a man of deep faith and boundless compassion,” and praises his dedication to the poor and to the cause of peace.

“He rightly saw great importance in fostering strong ties with the Jewish world and in advancing interfaith dialogue as a path toward greater understanding and mutual respect,” says Herzog, despite growing frustration among Jewish leaders over the pope’s statements on Israel and his use of problematic New Testament verses.

“I truly hope that his prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe return of the hostages will soon be answered,” says Herzog. “May his memory continue to inspire acts of kindness, unity, and hope.”