The concepts of free speech, intelligent discussion, and healthy disagreement are alien and hostile to the concept of the infallibility inherent in Sharia Law. The reaction to the Pope's remarks, taken out of context and sensationalized, are an attempt to impose the irrationality of Islamic Theocracy on Western Institutions and traditions.
In this context, apology is appeasement, and the surrender of the right to self-expression in the face of ignorance and dogma is indicative of a fatal weakness of moral fiber.