Tragic Israeli Strike Hits Catholic Church in Gaza, Leaving Two Dead and Several Injured

In a tragic incident that underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, an Israeli military strike has hit the only Catholic church in the region, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuring several others, including the parish priest, Father Juan Romanelli. The attack occurred at the Holy Family compound, confirmed by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem in a recent statement. Father Romanelli, a native of Argentina, was known to have had daily check-in calls from the late Pope Francis, discussing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This routine began on October 9, 2023, shortly after the outbreak of violence initiated by Hamas's attacks on Israel. In footage from a local hospital, Romanelli was seen with a bandaged leg, but was able to walk, indicating that while he was injured, his condition was not life-threatening. Witnesses reported that the church was struck by Israeli tank shelling. The Vatican has yet to respond to requests for comment on this incident. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the attack, stating that such airstrikes on civilian locations, including religious sites, are unacceptable no matter the military justification that is provided. The church was reportedly sheltering not only Christians but also Muslims, including children with disabilities. Dr. Fadel Naim, acting director of al-Ahli Arab Hospital, provided details of the wounded, noting that at least two were in critical condition, while others included a child with disabilities, two women, and an elderly person. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the reports regarding the damage to the Holy Family Church and the resulting casualties, stating that they were currently reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident. In their statement, the IDF emphasized their commitment to minimizing harm to civilians and to civilian infrastructure, including places of worship, expressing regret over any damage caused. This incident is part of a broader context of conflict, as dozens of Palestinians have reportedly been killed or injured in separate Israeli airstrikes throughout the Gaza Strip, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation. In mourning the passing of Pope Francis in April, Father Romanelli shared his sorrow, reflecting on how even during his hospitalization, the Pope made it a priority to check on the wellbeing of those in Gaza. The loss of the Pope was deeply felt within the community, as he had become a symbolic figure advocating for peace and humanitarian outreach in the region. In his final Easter Sunday address, Pope Francis condemned the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza and called on both Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire, release hostages, and assist the impoverished population longing for peace. This recent strike on the Holy Family Church tragically highlights the urgent need for resolutions to the long-standing conflict and for the protection of all civilians caught in the crossfire. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3