In an incident that has drawn international condemnation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed regret over a strike on the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, which resulted in the deaths of three civilians taking refuge in the sanctuary, as well as injuries to others.
Israel Expresses Regret Over Tragic Strike on Gaza's Catholic Church
Israel Expresses Regret Over Tragic Strike on Gaza's Catholic Church
Israeli leaders extend condolences following deadly missile strike that hit a sanctuary during ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Netanyahu stated, "Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful," after the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) investigated the strike which they described as an unintended consequence of military operations. The church, which serves as Gaza's only Catholic place of worship, has been a refuge for many seeking safety amid the ongoing violence.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem confirmed the casualties and noted that among the injured was the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli. In a statement, it lamented the loss of life, urging for an end to the violence as the community sought solace within its walls. Pope Leo XIV also joined in expressing sorrow over the incident, renewing calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Furthermore, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt informed reporters that U.S. President Donald Trump had a "negative reaction" to the church strike, leading to discussions between him and Netanyahu regarding the tragic event. According to military statements, the IDF is focused on dissecting the sequence of events that led to the attack as they maintain their commitment to targeting military assets while striving to minimize harm to civilians and sacred structures.
The Latin Patriarchate conveyed the plight of the individuals who fled to the church for safety, appealing for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict.
As international dialogues continue, the call for an end to hostilities remains urgent, stressing the necessity for preserving both life and legacy amidst ongoing turmoil in the region.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem confirmed the casualties and noted that among the injured was the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli. In a statement, it lamented the loss of life, urging for an end to the violence as the community sought solace within its walls. Pope Leo XIV also joined in expressing sorrow over the incident, renewing calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Furthermore, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt informed reporters that U.S. President Donald Trump had a "negative reaction" to the church strike, leading to discussions between him and Netanyahu regarding the tragic event. According to military statements, the IDF is focused on dissecting the sequence of events that led to the attack as they maintain their commitment to targeting military assets while striving to minimize harm to civilians and sacred structures.
The Latin Patriarchate conveyed the plight of the individuals who fled to the church for safety, appealing for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict.
As international dialogues continue, the call for an end to hostilities remains urgent, stressing the necessity for preserving both life and legacy amidst ongoing turmoil in the region.
