Gaza ( The COW News Digital) In a tragic escalation of violence, Israeli forces struck the only Catholic church in Gaza, “Holy Family Church,” which was providing shelter to both Christian and Muslim Palestinian refugees, including vulnerable children. The attack resulted in the death of two individuals and left several others injured.
International news agencies report that the Israeli military targeted the church, which has long been considered a safe haven amidst ongoing conflict. The strike caused severe damage and casualties, including injuries to the church’s priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli, who was hospitalized but is now reported to be in stable condition. However, he is advised to rest due to wounds sustained on his leg.
Among the wounded are two women, an elderly man, and a disabled child, some of whom are in critical condition, according to Dr. Fadil Naeem, acting director of Al-Ahli Arab Hospital, where the victims were taken for treatment.
The Israeli military spokesperson expressed regret over the casualties and announced an official investigation into the incident. They stated that efforts are continually made to avoid harm to civilians and places of worship during military operations.
The attack has drawn condemnation from global leaders and religious authorities. Pope Leo XIII expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and injuries, renewing calls for an immediate ceasefire to protect innocent civilians. The Vatican’s Secretary of State conveyed the Pope’s grief upon hearing the news.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also strongly condemned the attack, describing the ongoing Israeli operations as unacceptable. She emphasized that no military action justifies targeting civilian spaces or places of worship.
This attack on the Holy Family Church marks a disturbing violation of international humanitarian norms and highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The church had been offering refuge not only to Christians but also to Muslim Palestinians and special-needs children, emphasizing its role as a neutral sanctuary in a deeply divided region.
The incident has intensified calls from the international community for restraint and protection of civilian lives amid the escalating Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Observers fear that continued violence against shelters and humanitarian sites will exacerbate suffering and impede efforts toward peace.
As the situation remains volatile, global entities urge all parties to respect international law and protect vulnerable populations caught in the crossfire.
