Pope Francis calls for a thorough investigation into allegations of genocide in Gaza, highlighting the importance of justice and peace amid ongoing conflict.
According to excerpts from an upcoming book released on Sunday, Pope Francis has urged for an investigation into whether Israel’s attacks on Gaza constitute genocide against the Palestinian people.
In some of his strongest criticisms to date, the Pope has urged the international community to legally evaluate Israel’s actions in Gaza.
In excerpts published by the Italian daily La Stampa, the Pope remarked that “some experts suggest that events in Gaza exhibit characteristics of genocide.” He added, “This situation requires thorough investigation to ascertain if it aligns with the technical definition established by jurists and international organizations.”
The book, authored by Hernan Reyes Alcaide and inspired by conversations with the Pope, is titled “Hope Never Disappoints: Pilgrims Towards a Better World.” It is scheduled for release on Tuesday.
The Pope’s remarks reportedly represent the first instance of him using the term “genocide” in relation to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. His comments align with recent statements from the United Nations, which has described some activities by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as having characteristics consistent with genocide and accused Israel of employing starvation tactics during warfare.
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According to the UN, extensive destruction in Gaza by Israel has resulted in the displacement of approximately 1.9 million Palestinians, accounting for over 90% of the territory’s population.
In response, Israeli Ambassador to the Vatican Yaron Sideman asserted that allegations of genocide related to its military actions in Gaza were unfounded.
“There was a genocidal massacre of Israeli citizens on October 7, 2023. Since then, Israel has exercised its right to self-defense against attacks from seven different fronts,” he stated in a message on X this Sunday.
“Referring to it by any other name specifically targets the Jewish State.”
Since the Hamas-Israel conflict began in October 2023, numerous international organizations have accused Israel of committing inhumane actions in Gaza.
Last December, South Africa submitted a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, claiming that Israel’s actions in Gaza after Hamas’ unexpected attack were “genocidal in character.”
Following a series of raids by the Gaza-based militant group Hamas that resulted in 1,200 Israeli casualties, Israel declared war on them. More than a year into the conflict, health officials from the enclave report that over 43,000 Palestinians have lost their lives and nearly 97,000 have been injured due to intensive bombardments carried out by the IDF.
