‘Possible Genocide’: Pope Francis Breaks Silence on Gaza

Pope Francis has addressed allegations that Israel’s actions in Gaza might constitute genocide for the first time. In excerpts from his upcoming book ‘Hope Never Disappoints. Pilgrims Towards a Better World’, published by Italy’s ”La Stampa’ on Sunday (Nov 17), the pontiff called for a thorough investigation to determine whether the situation in Gaza fits the legal definition of genocide as outlined by international law.

He wrote, “According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of genocide,” and emphasized that this claim “should be studied carefully to determine whether (the situation) corresponds to the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies.”

Pope Francis’ statement aligns with the United Nations Special Committee’s recent assessment on November 14, which found Israel’s conduct in Gaza “consistent with the characteristics of genocide” and accused Israel of “using starvation as a method of war,” a claim rejected by Israel and its allies.

In response, Israel’s embassy to the Vatican reiterated its right to self-defense, citing the October 7, 2023 attack on Israeli citizens. “There was a genocidal massacre on 7 October 2023 of Israeli citizens, and since then, Israel has exercised its right of self-defense against attempts from seven different fronts to kill its citizens,” the embassy stated. Quoting Ambassador Yaron Sideman, it added, “Any attempt to call it by any other name is singling out the Jewish State.”

Though Pope Francis has consistently condemned the loss of life in Israel, he has previously refrained from using the term “genocide.” He concluded, “War dehumanises, leading us to tolerate unacceptable crimes. May leaders listen to the cry of the people who long for peace.”