GAZA CITY – A deadly Israeli airstrike struck the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of three civilians, including two women and a man. The attack also injured at least ten others, including the parish priest. This church is Gaza’s only Catholic place of worship and had been sheltering hundreds of displaced Palestinians, including children, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. Church leaders, including the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and the Greek Orthodox Patriarch, criticized the attack as a violation of humanitarian and religious norms. They also visited the site to deliver aid and show solidarity with the affected families.

Israeli officials expressed regret and attributed the incident to stray fire from nearby operations, stating that the church was not the intended target. However, human rights advocates and Christian leaders have questioned this explanation and called for an independent investigation, citing the church’s longstanding non-combatant status and its critical role as a civilian shelter.

The Vatican, along with various global leaders, expressed grave concern. The Pope called for an immediate ceasefire and emphasized the need to protect religious sanctuaries and civilian lives during conflict.

The attack is being seen as part of the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where ongoing hostilities have left thousands displaced, and essential services severely strained. The international community continues to press for de-escalation and accountability as tensions remain high in the region.