The world awoke today to the news of Pope Francis’ passing at 88, marking the end of a transformative yet controversial papacy.

As tributes pour in from global leaders—including Palestine’s gratitude for his vocal support—Muslims reflect on a pontificate that both inspired and unsettled interfaith relations.

A Defender of Palestine, But Silent on Muslim Issues?

Francis stood nearly alone among Western leaders in condemning Israel’s violence in Gaza, calling the situation "dramatic and deplorable." His 2014 prayer at Bethlehem’s apartheid wall became iconic, and Palestinian Christians credit him for urging them to "resist and stay on their land." Yet many Muslims criticized his silence on France’s hijab bans and rising Islamophobia, viewing it as selective solidarity.

Theological Whiplash: Progressivism vs. Tradition

The Pope’s universalist language (“all are children of God”) and openness to blessing same-sex unions alienated conservative Catholics while delighting liberals. His Jesuitical ambiguity left even priests confused—was he dismantling doctrine or just being “pastoral”? For Muslims, his reluctance to affirm Tawheed (God’s Oneness)—a core belief shared by Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all)—felt like a missed opportunity for interfaith unity.

What’s Next for the Catholic Church?

With Francis gone, expect a conservative correction. The Church is likely to retreat from his chaotic liberalism toward clearer boundaries—especially on morality and theology. Yet his legacy on Palestine may endure, proving even flawed allies can shift narratives.

Final Thought:
"If the next Pope embraces the prophets’ original message—pure monotheism—it could bridge divides deeper than any interfaith gesture."