Israel Regrets Gaza Church Strike Killing Three

“Stray Ammunition” Hits Holy Family Church Amid Ongoing Conflict

Prime Minister **Benjamin Netanyahu** expressed deep regret over an Israeli strike that Gaza’s sole Catholic church, resulting in the deaths of three individuals seeking refuge. The incident has intensified international calls for a cessation of hostilities in the region.

Church Shelter Becomes Scene of Tragedy

The Holy Family Church in Gaza City was struck on Thursday by what the Israeli military described as stray ammunition. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem confirmed the fatalities and reported several injuries among those sheltering at the church, which has become a sanctuary for those displaced by the conflict.

“Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful.”

—Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister

Pope Francis has been briefed on the incident and is reportedly “deeply saddened.” This event follows a period of intense fighting in Gaza, where civilian casualties have been a major concern, with over 21,000 Palestinians killed since the conflict began, according to the Gaza Health Ministry (Reuters, January 1, 2024).

Israeli Military Investigates, Cites “Mistake”

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that an initial inquiry suggests fragments from a shell fired during operational activity in the vicinity inadvertently struck the church. The military emphasized its commitment to avoiding civilian harm and protecting holy sites.

“An initial inquiry into reports regarding injured individuals in the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, suggests that fragments from a shell fired during operational activity in the area hit the church mistakenly. The cause of the incident is under review.”

—Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Statement

The IDF further stated, “The IDF directs its strikes solely at military targets and makes every feasible effort to mitigate harm to civilians and religious structures, and regrets any unintentional damage caused to them.”

US President Reacts, Discusses with Netanyahu

White House spokeswoman **Karoline Leavitt** indicated that US President **Donald Trump** had a strong negative reaction to the attack. President **Trump** spoke with Prime Minister **Netanyahu** regarding the incident, with **Netanyahu** reportedly characterizing the strike as a “mistake.”

The parish priest, Father **Gabriel Romanelli**, was among those reported injured in the attack. The Latin Patriarchate highlighted that individuals sought sanctuary in the church hoping for safety amidst the ongoing hostilities.

The Patriarchate issued a stark plea, asserting, “the war must come to a complete end.”