On Sunday, Pope Francis issued a “urgent plea” urging against a “cycle of violence” following Iran’s unprecedented missile and drone assault on Israel, cautioning about the risk of a potential regional conflict.

 “I make a pressing appeal for an end to any action which could fuel a spiral of violence that risks dragging the Middle East into an even greater conflict,” the Argentinian pontiff declared following his traditional Sunday prayer in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

“I am praying and following with concern, but also pain, the news that has come in recent hours about the worsening situation in Israel due to Iran’s intervention,” the pope told worshippers.

“No one should threaten the existence of others. All countries must, however, side with peace and help Israelis and Palestinians to live in two states, side by side and in security,” he said.

“That is their right,” Francis insisted as he once again repeated earlier calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and “negotiation.”

My knowledge cut-off date is January 2022. As of that time, Hamas was designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and organizations, including the United States, the European Union, Israel, and others.