Additional Coverage:
Pope Questions Israel’s Actions in Gaza
Pope Francis has called for an investigation into whether Israel’s military campaign in Gaza constitutes genocide against the Palestinian people. In an upcoming book, he suggests that experts believe the actions in Gaza meet the criteria of genocide.
The Pope’s remarks are his strongest criticism of Israel’s conduct in the year-long conflict. He has previously condemned the deaths of Palestinian children and airstrikes in Lebanon as immoral.
Israel denies allegations of genocide, claiming it is targeting Hamas and other armed groups. The Vatican has not commented on the Pope’s remarks, but has reported on them in its news website.
Francis has typically avoided taking sides in international conflicts, but has become increasingly critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The Pope’s concerns have been raised after a meeting with former hostages held by Hamas, who believe he used the term “genocide” in private.
Israel launched its campaign in Gaza after an attack on Israeli communities in October 2023. The conflict has claimed over 43,800 lives in Gaza, according to the Gaza health ministry.