Israeli Strike on Gaza's Only Catholic Church Leaves Multiple Injured and Dead

An Israeli military strike on the Holy Family Church, the only Catholic church in Gaza, has reportedly resulted in multiple injuries and casualties, according to various international news outlets. The attack, which occurred on Thursday, left Argentine priest Gabriel Romanelli injured, and several people dead, with different sources reporting varying numbers of casualties.

Background and Context

The Holy Family Church has been a refuge for around 500 people amidst the ongoing conflict in the region. According to La Repubblica, witnesses indicate that the damage to the church resulted from a tank bombardment, corroborated by The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem statement that the church had been bombarded. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the incident, attributing it to stray ammunition in a statement to TASS while the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, called the incident a mistake in a conversation with President Donald Trump, as reported by Clarin.

Key Developments and Details

The bombing has resulted in several casualties, with reports varying on the exact numbers. Al Jazeera English and Middle East Eye report at least three deaths, while Clarin reports two deaths and six injuries. Father Gabriel Romanelli, who has resided in the Gaza Strip since 2005 and is a frequent contact of Pope Francis, was among those injured, reportedly sustaining a minor wound to his right leg.

The Israeli military admitted to the attack and stated they are aware of the reports of damage to the church and injuries at the scene. However, the IDF claims the church was hit by projectile fragments by mistake and that the cause of the incident is under review.

Reactions and Implications

The attack has sparked global outrage, with Pope Leo XIV and the Archbishop of Westminster both condemning the attack and calling for an immediate ceasefire. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also condemned the attack, criticizing Israel for its actions.

The Vatican and the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem have questioned Israel's narrative that the attack was accidental. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, told Vatican News that a tank, the IDF says by mistake, but we are not sure about this, hit the Church directly.

Conclusion

As the dust settles, the church remains damaged, and the community is left to grapple with the aftermath. Despite Netanyahu's admission of the incident as a mistake and an assurance from the Israeli ambassador to Italy that there will be an investigation, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and other international figures remain skeptical. The incident adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict in the region.