In a tragic incident in Gaza, two Christian women were killed and several others injured in targeted attacks on a Catholic church and convent by the Israeli military. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem strongly condemned the violence, particularly as Christmas approaches.
According to a statement released on December 16, a sniper from the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) allegedly killed two Christian women, Nahida and Samar, inside the Holy Family parish in Gaza, where many Christian families have sought refuge. Over 600 people, including most of the city's small Christian minority, are currently sheltering in the parish.
The patriarchate reported that the victims were a mother and daughter, and one was fatally shot while attempting to rescue the other. Seven others were wounded as they tried to protect those inside the church compound. The statement emphasized that no warning or notification was given, and the victims were shot "in cold blood" within the parish premises where no belligerents were present.
Earlier on the same day, an IDF tank reportedly launched a rocket at the convent within the church compound, housing the Missionaries of Charity founded by Mother Teresa. The rocket destroyed the convent's generator, its only source of electricity, and its fuel stores. The house itself was damaged by the resulting explosion and massive fire. Two more rockets targeted the same convent, rendering it uninhabitable, displacing 54 disabled individuals who lived there.
Additional casualties occurred inside the church compound due to heavy bombing in the area, causing damage to essential infrastructure such as solar panels and water tanks crucial for the community's survival.
The patriarchate expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the affected families, stating that it is incomprehensible how such an attack could occur, especially as the entire Church prepares for Christmas. The statement concluded by assuring believers that the patriarchate is closely monitoring the situation and will provide further information as needed.
Pope Francis, in daily contact with Holy Family parish and its pastor Father Gabriel Romanelli, who is currently in Rome, expressed concern over the situation. Father Romanelli, unable to return to Gaza, has been replaced by the parish's associate pastor and other priests and nuns caring for those seeking shelter.
The ongoing conflict, initiated by a Hamas attack on Israel in October, has resulted in a ground offensive by the Israeli military in Gaza, claiming numerous lives and taking hostages. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, received his red hat during a consistory on September 30, attended by Father Romanelli. In a previous bombing, the historic Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church in Gaza, also serving as a shelter, suffered casualties, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis.