Pope Francis Faces Significant Backlash Over Migration Remarks

In St. Peter’s Square audience address, Pope Francis showed anger over migrants’ treatment and said that those who turn back on immigrants are committing a “grave” sin. He also addressed the plight of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea to enter Europe.

Francis Describes The Mediterranean Sea 

Francis described the Mediterranean Sea as a cemetery as many migrants traveled through dangerous oceans and seas just to find peace on their land, and lost their lives despite that it could have been prevented. 

In a report by HindustanTimes, Francis said, “There are those who work systematically and with every means to reject migrants. And this, when done with conscience and responsibility, is a grave sin,” 

“Instead, we will achieve it by extending safe and legal entry routes for migrants, by facilitating providing refuge for those fleeing war, violence, persecution, and so many calamities,” Francis added while saying that refugees should not cross the seas and desert. 

Trump’s Supporters Remarks

Former President Donald Trump’s supporters criticized Pope’s remarks and said “Pope Francis says we shall welcome immigrants with our arms open,” said one X user 

While another user said, “Who thinks the Vatican is too focused on appeasing globalists to effectively be a force for good when we need it most?”

“The Vatican is entirely protected by defensive walls and armed guards. Be welcoming! Let them all in!” a user said.

“Our pope apparently doesn’t understand the difference between knocking at the door and asking for help and breaking into one’s house and demanding provision,” another one said while criticizing the Pope’s comments. 

Trump To Carry Out The Largest Deportation 

Trump has featured immigrants notably in his campaign, blaming a rise in U.S.  crime on migrants, despite finding no link between immigrants and crimes. He has also pledged to carry out the largest deportation in the U.S. if elected president in the upcoming November elections. 

Francis’s supporters have defended him, as one user said that the Pope was “referring to harsh or contemptuous treatment of migrants,” and not denouncing the limits of migration. 

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