Gaza City : An Israeli airstrike has struck the Holy Family Church in northern Gaza, the region’s only Catholic church, injuring several civilians including its parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli. The incident has drawn international condemnation and raised fresh concerns over the targeting of religious and civilian infrastructure in the war-torn enclave, reported the Al Jazeera.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem confirmed the attack in an official statement, noting that although there were no reported fatalities as of now, several individuals were wounded and the church suffered significant damage. “The Patriarchate will provide additional details upon their confirmation,” the statement said.
Among the injured were a disabled child, two women, an elderly person, and Father Romanelli himself. Fadel Naem, acting director of Al-Ahli Hospital—located near the church—reported that at least two of the victims remain in critical condition. The Holy Family Church, situated only a short distance from the hospital, has been located in a heavily bombarded area for more than a week.
Video footage released by Palestinian journalist Abdal Aziz Khalil showed Father Romanelli with a bandaged right leg, conscious and able to speak. Romanelli, who shared close communication with the late Pope Francis, has been a central figure in Gaza’s Christian community and an active provider of humanitarian aid.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly condemned the attack. In a statement posted on social media, she wrote, “The Israeli raids on Gaza have struck the Church of the Holy Family. These attacks against civilians are unacceptable. No military action can justify such behavior.”
The Holy Family Church has been a critical refuge for hundreds of Palestinians, both Christian and Muslim, offering food, shelter, clean water, and medical assistance amid relentless bombardment.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the reports, stating, “The IDF is aware of reports regarding damage caused to the Holy Family Church in Gaza City and casualties at the scene. The circumstances of the incident are under review.” The military added that it takes precautions to avoid civilian harm and regrets any damage to civilian or religious sites.
Gaza’s Christian population is estimated to be fewer than 1,000 people according to the U.S. State Department’s 2024 report. Most belong to the Greek Orthodox Church, while a smaller number are Roman Catholic and other denominations.
This latest incident further highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the increasing dangers faced by both religious and civilian institutions amidst ongoing Israeli military operations.
