Iranian Leaders Extend Condolences on the Passing of Pope Francis
Tehran, The Gulf Observer: Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has offered his heartfelt condolences following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, leader of the Catholic Church, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
In a message of condolence, Qalibaf expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the globally respected religious figure, stating, “The passing of the esteemed spiritual figure and the leader of Catholic Christians, His Holiness Pope Francis, is deeply regrettable.”
Qalibaf described Pope Francis as a tireless advocate of peace, monotheism, and interfaith harmony, emphasizing his dedication to strengthening compassion and solidarity among believers. The Parliament Speaker further noted the Pope’s influential humanitarian reforms, particularly his unwavering stance on promoting interreligious dialogue, global peace, and support for the oppressed.
“His Holiness’s firm condemnation of the Israeli massacre in Gaza and his calls to halt the genocide of Palestinian civilians will remain etched in collective memory,” he added.
In a separate message, Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, Head of Iran’s Islamic Seminary, also extended condolences to Vatican officials and Christians around the world. He highlighted Pope Francis’s distinguished role in fostering interreligious understanding and peaceful coexistence among nations.
Pope Francis passed away at his residence in Casa Santa Marta within the Vatican, following years of health challenges, including respiratory illnesses. In November 2023, he canceled a scheduled visit to the United Arab Emirates due to illness.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. His tenure was marked by significant efforts to modernize the Catholic Church, champion the marginalized, and promote dialogue across faiths and cultures.
