Gaza’s only Catholic church, the Holy Family Church, has been severely damaged in an Israeli airstrike, according to reports from Gaza’s civil defense agency. This devastating attack has left two people dead and several others injured, including the church’s priest, who was among those caught in the chaos. The church was serving as a refuge for displaced Christians and Muslims, including vulnerable children with disabilities, when the strike occurred.

Witnesses suggest that the building may have been struck by an Israeli tank, raising urgent questions about the targeting of civilian sites amidst ongoing hostilities. In response, the Israeli military has issued a statement asserting that it “never targets religious sites,” a claim now facing intense scrutiny in light of this tragic incident.

This strike comes on the 650th day of the conflict in Gaza, as ceasefire negotiations remain tenuous. Although there have been whispers of progress, with sources indicating potential breakthroughs in talks between Israel and Hamas, the situation on the ground remains dire. President Trump has hinted at positive developments, but skepticism lingers as the negotiations unfold under a veil of secrecy.

As both sides grapple with the complexities of withdrawal maps and military positioning, the humanitarian crisis deepens. The attack on the Holy Family Church underscores the urgent need for a ceasefire and raises alarm over the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire. The world watches closely as the fragile hope for peace hangs in the balance, while the toll of violence continues to escalate.