A devastating Israeli shelling struck the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza on Wednesday, killing two individuals and injuring several others, including the parish priest, Rev. Gabriele Romanelli. The attack, which damaged the church compound sheltering hundreds of displaced Palestinians, has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed calls for a ceasefire.

Tragedy at a Sanctuary

The Holy Family Catholic Church, Gaza’s sole Catholic parish, was a refuge for both Christians and Muslims, including children with disabilities. Witnesses reported that the shelling killed a 60-year-old janitor and an 84-year-old woman receiving support from Caritas Jerusalem. Father Romanelli, a close confidant of the late Pope Francis, sustained minor injuries. The church, located near Al-Ahli Hospital, has been repeatedly targeted in recent strikes, exacerbating the plight of the 600 displaced people, including 54 with disabilities, sheltering there.

Global Reactions and Calls for Peace

Pope Leo XIV, responding to the attack, reiterated his plea for an immediate ceasefire. In a telegram sent by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican expressed grief over the loss of life and solidarity with the affected community, urging dialogue and reconciliation. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem condemned the strike as a “grave violation” of the sanctity of religious sites meant to be safe havens.

The Israeli military acknowledged the incident, stating it is under investigation and emphasizing efforts to avoid civilian harm. In an unusual step, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a public apology on social media, expressing sorrow for the damage and civilian casualties. However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sharply criticized Israel, calling its actions against civilians “unacceptable” and unjustifiable.

Context of Ongoing Conflict

The strike comes amid stalled ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, with Israel showing some flexibility on security corridors like the Morag Corridor in southern Gaza, according to an anonymous Israeli official. Despite cautious optimism, significant hurdles remain, including prisoner releases and commitments to end the war. The conflict, ignited by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 and abducted 251, has led to over 58,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly women and children, per Gaza’s Health Ministry.

A Fragile Christian Community

Gaza’s Christian population, numbering just 1,000 in a predominantly Muslim region, has faced immense challenges. The Holy Family Church has been a lifeline, with Pope Francis frequently calling to check on its occupants during his final months. The recent attack underscores the vulnerability of religious sites and civilians caught in the crossfire, prompting renewed urgency for a resolution to the ongoing violence.