A recent Israeli airstrike on Gaza has drawn sharp international criticism after hitting the Strip’s only Catholic church — the Holy Family Parish — injuring a priest and several worshippers who had sought refuge within the sacred compound. The attack, which occurred amid ongoing military operations in Gaza, has prompted outrage from religious and humanitarian communities, as well as a stern rebuke from the Italian government.
According to local sources and Church officials, the Holy Family Catholic Church, a long-standing sanctuary for both Christians and displaced civilians, was damaged by the strike late Wednesday night. Fr. Youssef Antoun, a parish priest, sustained injuries alongside several other civilians, many of whom were sheltering in the church complex after fleeing heavy bombardments in their neighborhoods.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem condemned the strike, stating, “The deliberate or reckless targeting of religious sites is a violation of international humanitarian law and a direct attack on the dignity of faith and human life.”
In Rome, Italy’s Foreign Minister issued a strongly worded statement Thursday morning, describing the bombing as “an unjustified and unacceptable act against a place of peace and worship.” The Italian government has called for an independent investigation and reiterated its support for the protection of religious institutions and civilian life in conflict zones.
The Vatican has also expressed grave concern. Pope Francis, during his morning address at St. Peter’s Square, said he was “deeply saddened” and prayed for peace and protection for the Christian community in Gaza, urging all sides to uphold the sanctity of life and the sacredness of worship spaces.
This incident comes at a time when civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and places of worship, has been repeatedly damaged or destroyed in the ongoing Israeli military campaign. Human rights organizations have raised alarms over the growing toll on civilians and are calling for greater international accountability.
The Holy Family Church, run by the Missionaries of Charity and Latin Patriarchate clergy, has for years served as a symbol of interfaith solidarity in Gaza, sheltering people of all backgrounds during periods of conflict.