Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has conveyed his country's deep remorse after a stray shell hit Gaza's only Catholic Church, resulting in the deaths of three individuals who had sought refuge there. In a statement, Netanyahu underscored the tragedy of any innocent life lost, extending condolences to the bereaved families and the local faithful. The unfortunate strike took place on Thursday when Israeli forces targeted an area nearby, inadvertently striking the Holy Family Church in Gaza City where several others were reported injured, according to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sadness over the casualties and injuries, reiterating his appeal for a ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway, reaffirming Israel's dedication to the protection of civilians and sacred sites. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded, describing the event as a regrettable error, stating that shell fragments from military operations mistakenly hit the church, which remains under review.
During the unfolding event, US White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt reported that President Donald Trump was not pleased with the attack. In a conversation on Thursday morning, Netanyahu referred to the incident as a mistake while discussing it with Trump. The Latin Patriarchate revealed that Father Gabriel Romanelli, the parish priest, was among those injured in the attack. They portrayed the church as a sanctuary where vulnerable individuals sought reprieve from the horrors of war, advocating for an immediate halt to the conflict.
