In a recent statement, Israel expressed its “deep regret” regarding an incident in which the only Catholic Church in Gaza was impacted during an airstrike, resulting in three fatalities and several injuries.
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked, “Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza’s Holy Family Church,” underscoring the tragedy of innocent lives lost. He emphasized that an investigation is currently underway and reiterated Israel’s “commitment to protecting civilians and holy sites.”
According to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which oversees the church, several individuals were injured in the attack. The Patriarchate stated, “This horrific war must come to a complete end,” noting that many victims sought refuge within the church compound after losing their homes and sense of security.
The Holy Family Church further reported in a separate statement that “a number of individuals were injured, some in critical condition.” In light of the tragedy, Pope Leo expressed his sorrow in a telegram, urging for “an immediate ceasefire.”
Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, who sustained an injury to his leg during the attack, was treated at Al-Ahly Hospital. The Israeli military has indicated that it is looking into the incident, and the foreign ministry assured that findings of the investigation would be made public. They reiterated that attacks on churches or religious sites are not condoned and expressed regret over any unintentional harm to civilians.
In the latest escalation, at least 27 individuals were reported killed by Israeli forces, which included the casualties at the church. Among the deceased were eight men assigned to protect aid trucks during ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Doha.
Despite optimistic remarks from a U.S. official regarding the ceasefire talks, reports from Hamas officials indicated that breakthroughs remain elusive, as military actions in Gaza persist.
Footage revealing the damage to the church showed significant impacts, including a damaged roof near the main cross and shattered windows. Father Gabriele Romanelli, known for regularly updating the late Pope Francis on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, was lightly injured and seen receiving treatment at Al-Ahly Hospital.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the attacks on civilians, attributing responsibility for the strike on the church compound to Israel.
Israel’s current military campaign aims to dismantle Hamas following its deadly assault on Israel earlier in October 2023, which has resulted in severe food shortages and suffering in Gaza. Reports indicate that airstrikes have claimed numerous lives, including that of a family in Jabalia and others in various regions of Gaza.
Ongoing ceasefire negotiations, facilitated by Qatar and Egypt with U.S. support, seek to establish a 60-day truce. The proposed plan includes the return of hostages and the transfer of deceased individuals, contingent upon Israel’s release of detained Palestinians. Discussions about aid delivery methods into Gaza and the conditions for a sustained ceasefire remain contentious.
Media reports suggest that Israel may consider altering its military presence along the Morag Corridor in southern Gaza during a ceasefire. However, no official comments from Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office have been made at this time.
U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff stated that negotiations are progressing well, yet a Palestinian official cautioned that such optimistic statements lack substantive backing.
The human toll of the conflict has been devastating, with Gaza health authorities documenting over 58,000 Palestinian fatalities, while Israeli estimates cite nearly 1,650 deaths, including those resulting from the October 7 attack.
“In times of conflict, it is vital to strive for peace,” a quote that resonates amidst this ongoing tragedy.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
