The Holy Family Church in Gaza City sustained damage during a reported raid, injuring several individuals, including parish priest Father Gabriel Romanelli. Amidst an ongoing conflict that has devastated local communities and religious sites, international voices are calling for accountability and highlighting the plight of displaced Christians.
Tragic Attack on Gaza Church Leaves Several Injured Amid Ongoing Conflict
Tragic Attack on Gaza Church Leaves Several Injured Amid Ongoing Conflict
A church in Gaza City, housing many displaced families, was reportedly struck, leading to injuries and condemnation from various international leaders and religious figures.
Several individuals were injured when the Holy Family Church in Gaza City was reportedly struck during a recent military raid, prompting condemnation from both local church leaders and international figures. Catholic Church officials stated that the church was "struck by a raid," although specific details regarding the origins of the attack remain unclear. The Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, attributed responsibility to Israeli forces, calling the repeated strikes on civilians "unacceptable" and asserting that no military action could justify such assaults.
The Israeli military acknowledged the incident and stated that investigations into the damage and casualty reports were underway. Many families, displaced by ongoing violence, have sought refuge in this Roman Catholic church, which had previously served as a sanctuary since the conflict's escalation. As church officials reported damage, a video showed Father Romanelli, who was among the injured, receiving medical attention and assessing the situation at al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City.
In light of the attack, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate decried the strike as a "flagrant violation" of human dignity, calling for accountability for the sanctity of religious sites. The church was reportedly sheltering around 600 displaced individuals, predominantly children and people with special needs, at the time.
This latest incident is part of a broader cycle of violence that has escalated since the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The current death toll in Gaza has climbed dramatically, exceeding 58,500 according to health ministry reports. International calls for peace and protection of civilians in conflict zones have amplified as the humanitarian crisis deepens.
