Church in Gaza experiences attack, leaving three deceased
In the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, the Catholic Church of the Holy Family has become the latest victim. Reports suggest that the church, which houses around 600 displaced people, was struck by an Israeli attack, resulting in three deaths and nine injuries.
The incident is currently under investigation by Israel's army, who maintain that their primary target is Hamas and other terrorist organisations in the region. However, the exact circumstances surrounding the attack are yet to be independently verified.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has condemned the attack on innocent civilians and a holy place. In a statement, they expressed their regret for any civilian casualties and the damage to the church. A photo released by the Patriarchate shows significant damage to the roof of the church, and the parish priest is reported to have suffered light injuries.
Two of the victims have been identified as the 60-year-old caretaker of the church and an elderly woman. The tragic loss of life has led to renewed calls for peace. Pope Leo XIV, in a statement, mourned the loss of life and urged "dialogue, reconciliation, and lasting peace." He also renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire.
Medical sources in the Gaza Strip report at least 32 people killed by Israeli attacks since the morning, adding to the growing concern over the safety of the civilian population. The Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has also commented on the incident, stating that Israel's attacks against the civilian population are unacceptable.
It is worth noting that the Gaza Strip, predominantly Muslim, is home to approximately 1,000 Christians, out of a total population of over two million. The Church of the Holy Family is the only Catholic place of worship in the Gaza Strip, among three churches in the region.
Israel's Foreign Ministry has expressed regret for the damage to the Church of the Holy Family and any civilian casualties. The ongoing conflict continues to raise concerns about the safety and wellbeing of civilians and religious institutions in the region.
The Israeli army is investigating the attack on the Church of the Holy Family, a crucial gathering place for displaced individuals, as part of their ongoing focus on tackling Hamas and other terrorist organisations in the region. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, distraught by the attack on innocent civilians and a holy place, has issued a statement expressing regret for any civilian casualties and the damage to the church, while appealing for dialogue, reconciliation, and lasting peace.
