Pope Francis Condemns Gaza Strikes, Doubts Peace Efforts by Israel and Hamas

Pope Francis criticized Israeli military strikes in Gaza leading to Palestinian children's deaths and expressed skepticism about peace efforts by Israel and Hamas. During a press conference, he shared his disappointment over the ongoing conflict while discussing various global issues, including a Vatican deal with China and clergy abuse allegations.

Pope Francis vehemently criticized the Israeli military strikes that led to the deaths of Palestinian children in Gaza, calling the attacks on schools under the pretext of targeting Hamas militants 'ugly.'

During a press conference on a flight back to Rome, the Pope questioned the sincerity of both Israel and Hamas in their efforts to end the conflict, which has now persisted for eleven months. He discussed his daily conversations with members of a Catholic parish in Gaza who relay harrowing accounts of the situation.

Additionally, the Pope touched on various global issues such as a Vatican deal with China over bishop appointments, which he believes is yielding positive results, and allegations of sexual abuse by clergy. He also dismissed reports of a potential visit to Paris for the Notre-Dame reopening, while contemplating a future trip to his home country, Argentina.

(With inputs from agencies.)