Several people have been injured at the Holy Family Church located in Gaza City following reports that it was struck by Israeli artillery fire. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem confirmed injuries, including that of Father Gabriele Romanelli, while denying initial claims regarding fatalities. The Israeli military acknowledged reports of damage and casualties at the church and stated that investigations into the incident were underway.
Catholic Church leaders described the location as having been "struck by a raid," though details remained vague. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni accused Israeli forces of being responsible for the attack, stating, "The attacks against the civilian population that Israel has been carrying out for months are unacceptable."
The church serves as a refuge for displaced Christians, with the Latin Patriarchate reporting over 600 people, including many children and individuals with special needs, were seeking shelter when the incident occurred. Videos showed damage to the church's roof and broken windows, further emphasizing the vulnerability of religious sites amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate condemned the attack, labeling it a severe violation of human dignity and religious sanctity. As the conflict escalates, the situation remains critical for the local population, with Israeli airstrikes having reportedly resulted in over 58,500 casualties since the onset of hostilities following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
Catholic Church leaders described the location as having been "struck by a raid," though details remained vague. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni accused Israeli forces of being responsible for the attack, stating, "The attacks against the civilian population that Israel has been carrying out for months are unacceptable."
The church serves as a refuge for displaced Christians, with the Latin Patriarchate reporting over 600 people, including many children and individuals with special needs, were seeking shelter when the incident occurred. Videos showed damage to the church's roof and broken windows, further emphasizing the vulnerability of religious sites amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate condemned the attack, labeling it a severe violation of human dignity and religious sanctity. As the conflict escalates, the situation remains critical for the local population, with Israeli airstrikes having reportedly resulted in over 58,500 casualties since the onset of hostilities following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
