Leaders of the Catholic and Greek Orthodox Churches made a rare visit to Gaza’s only Catholic church on Friday, just a day after an Israeli airstrike killed three people there. The visit is considered highly unusual due to Israel’s stringent control over movement in and out of Gaza. The Israeli government expressed deep regret over the incident, attributing it to stray ammunition, and announced that an investigation is underway.
Church Leaders Deliver Aid, Solidarity to Gaza’s Christian Community After Deadly Strike
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Theophilos III, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem, led the visit as a gesture of solidarity with Gaza’s embattled Catholic community.
According to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the leaders expressed joint concern for the Christian community in the region. They also delivered much-needed food and medical supplies and arranged for the evacuation of the injured from the attack for treatment outside the conflict zone.
The Catholic church in Gaza has become a sanctuary not only for Christians but also for others seeking refuge from the conflict. According to the Latin Patriarchate, approximately 600 people, mostly children, had taken shelter in the church when the Israeli strike occurred. The incident has drawn global attention and condemnation, emphasizing the increasing danger faced by civilians, particularly those in places of worship.
Pope Urges Ceasefire and Protection of Civilians as Global Condemnation Mounts Over Gaza Church Strike
Pope Leo spoke directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the strike, stressing the need to protect religious sites and civilians. The Vatican reported that the Pope once again called for an immediate ceasefire, voicing particular concern for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and the sick. Netanyahu acknowledged the conversation, offering condolences and reiterating Israel’s regret for the tragedy.
The international community, including the United States, has condemned the church strike, which comes amid unrelenting Israeli military operations in Gaza. The conflict has now claimed nearly 59,000 lives, according to the Palestinian health ministry.
Dr. Fadl Naim, Director of Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza, criticized the selective evacuation of the injured, questioning whether religious discrimination influenced the decision. He highlighted the plight of tens of thousands of injured Palestinians who remain unable to leave for medical treatment.
