Intense Conflict in Gaza: Israeli Strike Targets Church in Gaza Strip
In a distressing turn of events, the Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City was hit during an Israeli military operation on July 17, 2025. Reports suggest that the church was struck by a tank shell or possibly a drone strike, causing substantial damage and resulting in several casualties.
The incident left two people dead, according to the Latin Patriarchate, although other sources, including Vatican News and the Catholic News Agency, reported three fatalities. Among the injured was the parish priest, Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, who sustained a light injury to his leg.
The church, which had been serving as a refuge for displaced persons, including Christians and Muslims, and providing essential services like shelter and medical aid, was left in ruins. The attack has left thousands without access to basic necessities and medical care.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have acknowledged the reports of damage to the church and casualties in the area. They have expressed regret for any harm caused and are currently investigating the circumstances of the incident, emphasizing their efforts to minimize harm to civilians and religious sites.
The event has sparked international condemnation and calls for peace. Pope Leo XIV has been informed about the incident at his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, according to reports from the Vatican. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has also commented on the incident, stating that attacks against the civilian population in the Gaza Strip by Israel are unacceptable.
Two women initially thought to be dead were revived and are now in critical condition in the hospital. Meanwhile, Palestinian news agency Wafa reported further, sometimes fatal, Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip since the morning, but these reports could not be independently verified at first.
[1] Vatican News. (2025). Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City hit during Israeli attacks. [online] Available at: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2025-07/catholic-church-of-the-holy-family-gaza-city-hit-israeli.html
[2] Catholic News Agency. (2025). Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City hit during Israeli attacks. [online] Available at: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/239810/catholic-church-of-the-holy-family-in-gaza-city-hit-during-israeli-attacks
[3] Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem. (2025). Statement on the attack on the Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City. [online] Available at: https://www.lpj.org/statement-on-the-attack-on-the-catholic-church-of-the-holy-family-in-gaza-city/
[4] Middle East Eye. (2025). Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City hit during Israeli attacks. [online] Available at: https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/catholic-church-holy-family-gaza-city-hit-israeli-attacks
- The Israeli military operations, specifically the attack on the Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City on July 17, 2025, has become a topic of intense discussion in the realm of general news, war-and-conflicts, and crime-and-justice.
- The aftermath of the attack on the Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City has led to significant political repercussions, with international condemnation, calls for peace, and statements from prominent political figures such as Pope Leo XIV and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
