In a recent incident, an Israeli airstrike on Gaza's Holy Family Church resulted in the deaths of three individuals, leading to expressions of sorrow from both Israeli officials and the Pope, as calls for a ceasefire grow.
### Israel Expresses Regret Over Fatal Strike at Gaza Catholic Church

### Israel Expresses Regret Over Fatal Strike at Gaza Catholic Church
Israel's Prime Minister acknowledges the tragic consequences of a military operation that resulted in civilian casualties at a sacred site.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep regret on Thursday after a military strike mistakenly hit the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, leading to the tragic deaths of three people who had sought refuge there. "Every innocent life lost is a tragedy," he lamented, extending condolences to the victims' families and the local faithful.
The incident occurred during a military operation, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), who confirmed that fragments from a shell misfired into the church, injuring several others including the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli. "An initial review indicates that operational activity in the area led to this unfortunate mishap," the IDF reported, emphasizing their commitment to directing strikes only at military targets while minimizing civilian harm.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which oversees the church, described the dire situation, emphasizing that the church had become a sanctuary for individuals fleeing the relentless violence in the region. They further called for an immediate end to hostilities, voicing heartbreak over the loss of life, as Pope Leo XIV echoed similar sentiments, expressing sadness over the incident and renewing his plea for a ceasefire in Gaza.
U.S. officials, including White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, conveyed that President Donald Trump reacted negatively to news of the church strike and discussed the incident with Netanyahu, who characterized the event as a "mistake." The ongoing conflict continues to raise urgent calls from humanitarian leaders for a resolution that prioritizes the safety of civilians and sacred sites.