**Pope Calls for Investigation into Possible Genocide in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict**

In a significant and unprecedented move, Pope Francis has called for an investigation into whether Israel's recent attacks on Gaza could be classified as genocide. This request was unveiled in excerpts from an upcoming book, "Hope Never Disappoints. Pilgrims Towards a Better World," authored by Hernán Reyes Alcaide based on interviews with the pontiff. The call for an investigation comes as part of the literature published ahead of Pope Francis's 2025 jubilee year, a special holy year expected to draw more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome.

This marks the first instance of Pope Francis openly urging an inquiry into such allegations concerning Israel's military actions. Previously, in September, he described the attacks by Israel on Gaza and Lebanon as "immoral" and excessive, arguing that the military had surpassed the acceptable limits of warfare.

"According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide," Pope Francis stated, urging a thorough investigation to determine if the situation meets the technical definition as outlined by legal experts and international organizations.

The conflict has led to grim statistics. Local media in Gaza reported that a recent airstrike on a residential building in Beit Lahiya resulted in numerous casualties. Further strikes in Nuseirat and Bureij, as well as along Gaza's main north-south highway, contributed to a toll that the Health Ministry in Gaza says has reached approximately 43,800 Palestinians, with women and children constituting more than half of the fatalities. The humanitarian crisis has displaced about 90% of Gaza's 2.3 million population, with significant portions of the territory decimated by ongoing bombardments.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's private residence in Caesarea was targeted in a flare attack, resulting in the arrest of three suspects. Although Netanyahu and his family were not present at the time, this incident, coupled with a previous drone strike by Hezbollah last month, underscores the heightened tension and security concerns. The flare attack has intensified domestic political disputes, with figures such as Justice Minister Yariv Levin calling for judicial reforms amid the chaos.

Netanyahu, facing criticism over his management of the hostage crisis originating from Hamas's assault on October 7, 2023, continues to be a focal point of public dissent. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid condemned the attack on Netanyahu's home while criticizing Levin's proposed judicial reforms, which he perceives as undermining democratic principles.

The tragic events continue to escalate, bringing profound suffering and a complex geopolitical crisis that the international community, including religious authorities like Pope Francis, cannot ignore.