By Kate Quiñones
CNA Staff, Nov 18, 2024 / 18:15 pm
Pope Francis’ recent call for an investigation into claims of a possible genocide in Gaza has stirred controversy.
In a passage from a new book released ahead of the 2025 Jubilee Year, Pope Francis raised concerns about the situation in Gaza and urged for a thorough investigation into the matter, as reported by Vatican News.
The book, titled “Hope Never Disappoints: Pilgrims Toward a Better World” by Hernán Reyes Alcaide, features interviews with Pope Francis and is set to be released on Nov. 19 in Italy, Spain, and Latin America by Edizioni Piemme Publishers, coinciding with the start of the 2025 Jubilee. It will be available in other languages at a later date.
In the book, Pope Francis expressed his concern, stating that the situation in Gaza may potentially meet the criteria for genocide and should be thoroughly examined in accordance with legal definitions.
He also emphasized the plight of those fleeing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza due to limited access to food and aid.
However, Israel’s ambassador to the Holy See, Yaron Sideman, disputed the claims made by the Pope, sparking further debate on the issue.
Sideman responded to the Pope’s remarks on X, raising objections to the allegations.
Israel’s Right to Self-Defense: A Response to the 2023 Massacre
On October 7, 2023, a genocidal massacre of Israeli citizens shook the world. In the aftermath, Israel has been forced to defend itself against attacks from seven different fronts, each posing a threat to the safety of its people. Yaron Sideman highlighted the importance of recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense in the face of such atrocities.
In a recent press release dated November 18, the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) condemned remarks made by the Pope, referring to them as an “eighth front” in the ongoing war against Israel. The CEO of CAM, Sacha Roytman, emphasized the potential dangers of such comments, especially when coming from influential figures like the Pope.
Amidst these challenges, South Africa has taken legal action against Israel, accusing them of violating the Genocide Convention. The International Court of Justice is currently reviewing the case, awaiting a verdict.
Furthermore, a United Nations Special Committee released a report claiming that Israel’s actions in Gaza align with characteristics of genocide, pointing to mass civilian casualties and intentional harm inflicted on Palestinians.
Despite these challenges, Pope Francis recently met with former hostages from Gaza, offering support and solidarity. The emotional meeting underscored the human toll of conflicts in the region.
As the world grapples with the aftermath of the 2023 massacre, it is crucial to acknowledge Israel’s right to self-defense and work towards a peaceful resolution that ensures the safety and security of all individuals involved.
Source: BBC News
