Pope Francis Condemns Paris Attacks as “blasphemy” and “not human”

In the wake of a string of terrorist attacks in Paris this weekend, Pope Francis has weighed in on the issue in clear disapproval and disgust.

The pontiff declared the attacks “blasphemy” and “not human” during a phone interview with official network of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, TV2000 this past weekend.

Pope Francis repeated his disdain with the attacks again Sunday (Nov. 15) during his address in St. Peter’s Square, saying the events “have shocked not only France but the whole world,” according to The Huffington Post.

“I am close to the people of France, to the families of the victims, and I am praying for all of them,” Francis said. “I am moved and I am saddened. I do not understand, these things are hard to understand.”

The coordinated string of attacks around Paris late Friday (Nov. 13) left at least 129 people dead and more than 350 injured. According to The Huffington Post, the attacks were the deadliest in France since World War II.

Learn how to cope with grief in the wake of the Paris tragedy on Deily.