Israel Expresses Regret Over Deadly Attack on Gaza’s Only Catholic Church

UN and Pope condemn strike on Holy Family Church as Israel cites “target misdirection” and promises transparent investigation.

JERUSALEM: A tragic attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church—Gaza’s only Catholic place of worship—has claimed three lives and left at least ten others injured, drawing global condemnation and sparking calls for accountability and peace.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed sorrow over the incident, stating that Israel “deeply regrets” the unintended strike. He explained that the church was hit due to a “target misdirection” that caused ammunition to fall on the religious site. “Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share in the grief and pain of the Christian community,” Netanyahu stated.

Following the incident, the Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), confirming that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are investigating the circumstances surrounding the strike. The ministry assured that the findings of the inquiry will be shared “transparently.”

International outrage has swiftly followed. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding civilian sanctuaries. UN Associate Spokesperson Stéphanie Tremblay echoed his concern, stating, “Attacks on religious sites are unacceptable. Places of refuge must be protected, not targeted.”

Tremblay reiterated the Secretary-General’s call for all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize civilian safety and ensure the continuous delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. She also underscored the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages.

Pope Francis (referred to as Pope Leo 14 in some translations) also voiced his deep sorrow over the incident. In a message posted on X, he said, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives and injuries caused by the military attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza. I express my spiritual closeness to the parish community. I entrust the souls of the deceased to God’s mercy and pray for the injured and their families.”

The Pope once again called for an immediate ceasefire, insisting, “Only dialogue and reconciliation can bring lasting peace.”

As the investigation continues, the tragedy has intensified global calls for a halt to the violence in Gaza and renewed appeals to protect all civilians—regardless of faith, nationality, or location.