World Leaders Mourn Passing of Pope Francis at 88

World leaders and religious figures have paid tribute to Pope Francis following his death at age 88, recognizing his commitment to compassion, peace, and interfaith dialogue. The Grand Imam of Al Azhar, Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, praised Francis for advancing relations between the Vatican and the Islamic world and for his humanitarian stances, notably his condemnation of aggression in Gaza and opposition to Islamophobia. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed lauded the pope's dedication to peaceful coexistence and his advocacy for the disadvantaged, including migrants and climate-impacted communities. Israeli President Isaac Herzog highlighted Francis's efforts to strengthen ties with the Jewish community and his calls for peace in the Middle East, though he also noted some controversy over the pope's remarks regarding the conflict in Gaza. Despite differing perspectives, these leaders emphasized Francis's enduring legacy as a champion of the poor, a promoter of unity, and a catalyst for interreligious understanding.