Pope Francis Calls for Investigation into Possible Genocide in Gaza

ROME — Pope Francis has called for an investigation into whether Israel’s actions in Gaza could be considered genocide. This is the first time the Pope has openly asked for such an inquiry. His comments were released ahead of a new book, Hope Never Disappoints: Pilgrims Toward a Better World, due out Tuesday.

In the book, Francis says some experts believe the situation in Gaza shows signs of genocide and urges a careful investigation to see if it meets the legal definition.

The Pope has been outspoken in his criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, calling them “immoral” and too extreme. In September, he said Israel’s actions went beyond the rules of war.

The Israel-Hamas war started in October 2023 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking hostages. Israel’s retaliation has led to the deaths of more than 43,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children, according to Gaza health officials.

Pope Francis has also spoken about other global issues in the book, including migration and the war in Ukraine. He urged countries to respond with kindness and cooperation, rather than strict laws or fear-driven policies.

His call for an investigation into Gaza adds to the growing international debate over the conflict and its consequences.