Et tu, Pope Francis? 

In a dramatic escalation of his stance on the Gaza conflict, Pope Francis has broken his diplomatic restraint to demand an investigation into whether Israel's military campaign constitutes genocide, shocking observers and potentially reshaping the global conversation about the war.

"According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide," the Pope declared. "We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies."

These unprecedented remarks, appearing in "Hope never disappoints. Pilgrims towards a better world" by Hernán Reyes Alcaide, represent the his boldest step yet into the heart of this conflict.

The timing is also particularly significant, coming just before his 2025 jubilee year when 30 million people are expected to descend on Rome.

Although Pope Francis met relatives of Hamas' 101 hostages, it appears that he taken a stand – against Israel.

Newsday contributed to this article.