The funeral of Pope Francis serves as a key moment for examining international relations, particularly for Russia and Israel. Both countries will send lower-ranking representatives, with Putin's absence linked to an ICC arrest warrant. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's absence signals strained ties with the Vatican due to ongoing criticism from Francis concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict. France's earlier condemnation of the war further deepened this rift. The diplomatic gestures at the funeral reflect the nuanced and often contradictory relationships these nations hold with the Vatican.
Putin's absence is widely seen as tied to the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against him, although he praised Pope Francis as a 'defender of humanism'.
Netanyahu's absence comes amid strained ties between Israel and the Vatican, particularly over the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and the pope's criticisms.
The first official message of condolence from Israel arrived hours after the pope's death, indicating strained relations between Israel and the Vatican during Francis' tenure.
Olga Lyubimova and Yaron Zeidman will represent Russia and Israel at the funeral, reflecting the complex diplomatic relationships these countries have with the Vatican.
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