The Holy Family Catholic Church, located in the Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City, was struck during ongoing Israeli military operations in the area. The church had been serving as a refuge for Palestinian Christians who had already lost their homes and possessions during the war.

International Reactions Echo Around the Globe

The incident resulted in at least two fatalities and several injuries. Father Gabriele Romanelli, the parish priest, sustained minor injuries during the attack. A funeral for the victims was held later that same day at the nearby Greek Orthodox Saint Porphyrius Church.

Pope Leo XIV expressed his sadness and spiritual support for the local Catholic community through a telegram from Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. The message extended his condolences and reinforced his stance against violence in the region.

Parolin stated on the pope’s behalf that the pontiff “renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire” and emphasized the need for “dialogue, reconciliation and enduring peace.” The pope also assured the parish community of his closeness during this difficult time.

Israeli Officials Respond to the Incident

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement acknowledging that the church strike resulted from “stray ammunition.” He described the event as a mistake and extended condolences to the victims and their families.

According to the Israeli government, every innocent death is a tragedy, and the state reaffirmed its commitment to protect civilians and religious sanctuaries. Netanyahu’s office expressed appreciation for the pope’s message and indicated that an investigation into the circumstances has begun.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also commented on the incident, insisting that they do not intentionally target religious sites. IDF International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani emphasized the military's efforts to avoid harm to civilians and protect freedom of worship.

Condemnation from Global Political Figures

The Italian government joined the voices criticizing the assault, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni describing Israeli air raids as unacceptable. She stated that civilian harm is unjustified under any military rationale.

In the United States, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that President Donald Trump did not react positively to the incident. She relayed that he viewed the strike on the Catholic institution disapprovingly, although no further official U.S. position was provided.

Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein also commented, reiterating that Israel never deliberately targets churches or religious spaces. He conveyed sorrow for the incident and the impact on innocent people.

Latin Patriarchate Denounces Attack as Inhumane

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem condemned the strike in strong terms, calling it an attack on noncombatants and a sacred facility. Church officials expressed concern over the safety of those who had taken shelter within the compound.

Representatives from the Patriarchate said the individuals affected were those already displaced and seeking sanctuary. They extended condolences to grieving families and pledged prayers for the wounded's recovery.

“The people in the Holy Family Compound are people who found in the Church a sanctuary,” the Patriarchate said, emphasizing the loss experienced by individuals who turned to the church after losing nearly everything else.

Mounting Pressure for De-escalation

As the investigation unfolds, concerns have mounted internationally over the targeting of civilian sites, particularly places of worship. Religious leaders and political figures alike continue to elevate calls for accountability and restraint.

The Holy Family Church has long served as a spiritual home for Gaza’s Catholic minority, and its damage highlights the human toll of the persistent conflict. Community members now face the challenge of recovery and mourning amid ongoing violence.

For now, attention remains on both the findings of the Israeli investigation and whether an immediate ceasefire can be achieved amid renewed pressure from faith-based and diplomatic channels around the globe.