Pope Francis Decries Palestinian Child Deaths, Questions Peace Efforts

Pope Francis condemned the deaths of Palestinian children caused by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, labeling the attacks on schools as 'ugly'. Returning to Rome from Singapore, he expressed skepticism that either Israel or Hamas, engaged in an eleven-month conflict, were pursuing genuine peace efforts.

Pope Francis condemned the deaths of Palestinian children caused by Israeli military strikes in Gaza, labeling the attacks on schools under the pretense of targeting Hamas militants as 'ugly'.

During his flight back to Rome from Singapore, the pontiff also expressed skepticism about the intentions of both Israel and Hamas, who have been at war for eleven months.

'I am sorry to have to say this,' the pope stated. 'But I do not think that they are taking steps to make peace.'

(With inputs from agencies.)