1Berita – Pope Francis reportedly referred to genocide in Gaza during a meeting with Palestinian residents amid Israel’s aggression against the country.
Shireen Awwad Hilal, a lecturer at Bethlehem Bible College, stated that the religious leader used the term genocide when meeting with a Palestinian delegation with relatives in Gaza.
“As we shared stories about families affected, he said, ‘I see genocide,'” said Hilal, as quoted by Middle East Eye.
She further added, “It’s very clear the term genocide didn’t come from us. It came out of His Holiness Pope Francis.”
Other attendees at the event also claimed to have heard the Pope use the term genocide. However, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni provided a different statement.
“I am not aware that he used such a word,” said Matteo.
Furthermore, Matteo mentioned that the Pope used expressions expressed in general audiences and words that represent the “terrible situation being experienced in Gaza.”
Israel has been conducting aggression against Palestine since October 7, declaring war against the Hamas militia. During this operation, they targeted civilians and civilian structures, including hospitals.
After weeks of aggression, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire, which will take effect within 24 hours.
