Hamas paid tribute on Monday to Pope Francis, who passed away in the morning at the Vatican, praising him as one of the main religious voices to condemn the ongoing 'genocide' in Gaza.

In a press release, the Palestinian movement 'extended its deepest condolences to the Catholic Church worldwide and to all Christians.' Highlighting François' 'long career in service of human and religious values,' it expressed gratitude for the pope, who was 'one of the most important religious voices to condemn war crimes and genocide' in Gaza.

Pope François had discussed in a book accusations of 'genocide' in Gaza against Israel. 'According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of genocide. It would be appropriate to study this carefully to determine if (the situation) corresponds to the technical definition formulated by jurists and international organizations,' the pope assessed.