Christian Leaders Visit Gaza After Israeli Church Strike Kills Three

Top church leaders from Jerusalem, including the Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III, made a rare visit to Gaza following an Israeli strike on the Holy Family Catholic Church that killed three people and wounded ten others, including the resident priest. The church compound was sheltering both Christians and Muslims at the time of the attack, which Israel described as an accident and is currently investigating. The religious leaders expressed solidarity with the local Christian community, delivered aid including food and medical supplies, and arranged for the evacuation of injured individuals to hospitals outside Gaza. The attack drew condemnation from global leaders and religious figures, with Pope Leo XIV renewing calls for an immediate ceasefire and US President Donald Trump expressing frustration to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The visit marked a significant moment as Gaza's borders have been largely sealed since the start of Israel's offensive in May, limiting access for outsiders. The Latin Patriarchate reaffirmed its commitment to the Christian community and the broader population of Gaza, emphasizing ongoing support and humanitarian assistance.