German Chancellor defends Pope

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has defended remarks on Islam and jihad made by the Pope during his trip to Germany, saying they have “misunderstood” the Pontiff’s message.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has defended remarks on Islam and jihad made by the Pope during his trip to Germany, saying his message has been “misunderstood”.

“Whomever criticises the Pope has misunderstood the message of his speech,” Ms Merkel said.