Israel Expresses Regret Following Fatal Strike on Catholic Church in Gaza

The Israeli Prime Minister has expressed profound regret over a military strike that inadvertently hit the only Catholic Church in Gaza, resulting in three deaths and several injuries, as calls for a ceasefire intensify.

Israel has voiced its regret for a tragic incident in which a military strike hit the Holy Family Church, the only Catholic church in Gaza, leading to the deaths of three individuals seeking refuge. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful.” The attack occurred on Thursday, with reports indicating that several others were injured, as stated by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.

Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of life and reinvigorated his call for a ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the need for peace amidst the continuing violence. Netanyahu announced that an investigation is underway, reiterating Israel's dedication to safeguarding civilians and religious sites. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) explained that preliminary inquiries suggest fragments from a shell mistakenly struck the church during military operations and emphasized their protocol of targeting only military installations while attempting to minimize harm to civilians.

In the wake of the incident, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt noted that President Donald Trump had a negative response to the attack, and he communicated with Netanyahu regarding the situation. The Patriarchate reported that the wounded included parish priest Father Gabriel Romanelli and emphasized that many sought sanctuary in the church in hopes of escaping the brutality of war, which has already stripped away their homes and dignity. The call for an end to the war continues to gain traction as the situation in Gaza remains dire.