Israel Sends Ambassador Only to Pope Francis' Funeral Amid Tense Relations

Israel will send only its ambassador to the Vatican to attend Pope Francis' funeral, while most other major nations are dispatching heads of state or royalty. This minimal representation marks a significant downturn in Israel-Vatican relations, attributed by diplomats to tensions stemming from the 2023 Gaza war and the Vatican's critical stance on Israel's actions. The situation was further exacerbated by Israel deleting a government social media post that had offered condolences for the pope's death. Unlike the high-level delegation sent to the funeral of Pope John Paul II, this decision underscores the current diplomatic chill. While some diplomatic efforts for reconciliation continue, the relationship remains at a low point.