In a solemn statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed remorse for the unfortunate incident involving the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, where a misfired shell claimed three lives and left several injured. "Every innocent life lost is a tragedy," Netanyahu emphasized, conveying solidarity with the families affected by the attack. The incident occurred on Thursday, drawing widespread attention and concern, particularly from the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which oversees the church’s operations.

Pope Leo XIV shared his sorrow regarding the casualties, reiterating calls for an immediate ceasefire in the region. Following the incident, Netanyahu confirmed that an investigation was underway to ascertain the circumstances leading to the tragedy and reiterated Israel's commitment to safeguarding civilians and sacred sites.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) asserted that an initial inquiry indicated stray shell fragments hit the church in error amidst ongoing military activities, emphasizing that their operations target military threats while striving to avoid civilian harm.

In the aftermath, U.S. officials, including White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, reported that President Donald Trump had a negative reaction to the church attack and discussed the matter directly with Netanyahu. The parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli, was among the injured, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals seeking sanctuary in the church from the ongoing conflict. The Patriarchate stressed the urgency for a complete resolution to the war, as the affected community sought refuge and solace amidst the chaos and despair that conflict has wrought upon their lives.