Pope expresses concern over Palestinians' living circumstances, characterizing them as intolerable
Pope Leo XIV has renewed his appeal for a ceasefire and a negotiated diplomatic solution in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing his 'profound closeness to the Palestinian people in Gaza' who continue to live in fear and survive in unacceptable conditions.
In a report released on September 16, the U.N. Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory determined that Israel is responsible for the commission of genocide in Gaza. The report urged Israel and all countries to fulfill their obligations under international law 'to end the genocide' and punish those responsible.
Navi Pillay, chairperson of the commission, stated that it is clear there is an intent to destroy the Palestinians in Gaza through acts that meet the criteria set forth in the Genocide Convention. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, announced a long-planned operation to occupy Gaza City, aiming at Hamas' 'last major stronghold.'
Heavy airstrikes hit portions of Gaza City as Israeli troops began a gradual push from the outskirts, with about a million Palestinians having returned to their homes in Gaza City, often in the rubble or in bombed-out buildings, according to the BBC. The Israel Defense Forces estimated that 350,000 people had fled Gaza City by September 16, and more than half a million remain in the city.
In response to the report, Danny Meron, Israel's Ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva, rejected the commission's findings, stating they 'falsely accuse Israel of genocidal intent' and cannot be substantiated.
Pope Leo XIV, speaking at the end of his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square on September 17, invoked the Almighty Lord who commanded, 'Thou shalt not kill,' and spoke of every person's inviolable dignity to be respected and protected. He invited everyone to join him 'in heartfelt prayer that a dawn of peace and justice may soon arise.'
As the conflict in Gaza continues, the Pope's call for a ceasefire and respect for international humanitarian law serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the dignity and rights of all people involved.
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