The Israel Defense Forces estimated 350,000 people had fled the city by Sept. 16, the BBC reported. On Monday, a United Nations commission of inquiry issued a report saying Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, something the Israeli government denies. Hamas took 250 hostages, 20 of whom are believed to be still alive and held captive in Gaza. Yesterday, Pope Leo spoke with Father Gabriel Romanelli, the Argentine-born parish priest of the Holy Family parish in Gaza City, which is caring for some 450 people, young and old, including disabled and very sick people. Pope Leo concluded his remarks by inviting all present at today’s audience “to join in my heartfelt prayer that a dawn of peace and justice may soon arise.”Material from Catholic News Service was used in this report.