Israeli Regret Over Deadly Strike on Gaza Catholic Church

The incident raises concerns over civilian safety amidst ongoing conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly expressed his profound regrets following an airstrike that tragically struck the Holy Family Church, the sole Catholic Church in Gaza, leading to the deaths of three individuals who were seeking refuge there. "Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful," he stated in a somber announcement. The attack occurred on Thursday, as tensions continue to rise in the region, with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem confirming multiple injuries resulting from the incident.

Pope Leo XIV voiced his heartbreak over the loss of life and injuries, reiterating calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu confirmed that an investigation is underway to understand the circumstances of the incident, emphasizing Israel's commitment to safeguarding both civilians and religious sites during military operations. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) explained in a report that initial findings indicate that a shell fired during ongoing military activities accidentally struck the church. They affirmed their policy of targeting military objectives while striving to minimize civilian and structural harm.

Reacting to the strike, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt noted that President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction regarding the incident, having had a conversation with Netanyahu earlier in the day. The IDF maintains it directs its operations solely towards military targets and regrets the unintended consequences that arise from such strikes. Meanwhile, the Patriarchate has asserted that the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli, was injured in the bombing and emphasized that many sought "sanctuary" at the church, hoping to escape the relentless chaos of war. The statement concluded with a plea for an end to the ongoing conflict.