In a grave escalation of attacks on civilian and religious infrastructure, an Israeli strike targeted Gaza’s only Catholic church, injuring several people and damaging sacred property. The assault took place amid ongoing bombardments in the besieged enclave, deepening the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians.
The Church of the Holy Family, a historic and vital sanctuary for Gaza’s small Christian community, was reportedly struck while civilians, including women and children, were sheltering inside. Eyewitnesses and church officials confirmed widespread panic and injuries among the displaced people taking refuge there.
Church leaders and international observers have condemned the attack, calling it a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and religious sanctity. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and other Christian authorities expressed shock, demanding immediate accountability and protection for all religious sites.
This incident is the latest in a pattern of strikes on hospitals, schools, and religious institutions during Israel’s months-long offensive in Gaza, where over 38,000 Palestinians have been killed and critical infrastructure has been devastated.
