Pope Francis Meets Palestinian President Abbas

Pope Francis is scheduled to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday at the Vatican, coinciding with Abbas's visit to Italy for discussions with Italian leaders. The meeting is significant as Pope Francis has recently intensified his criticism of Israel's military operations in Gaza, suggesting that the international community should consider whether these actions amount to genocide. This comment has drawn a rebuke from Israel's ambassador to the Holy See, who dismissed the allegations as unfounded. Gaza authorities report severe casualties and a humanitarian crisis amidst the conflict, while the Pope has condemned the global community's failure to intervene. This meeting will be the latest in a series of discussions between the Pope and Abbas, with previous encounters occurring as recently as November 2021. The Pope's vocal stance signifies an evolving role in addressing the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.