Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III last week called for an end to Israeli settler attacks in the West Bank. AFP
Holy Land religious leaders visit Gaza following Church attack
Gaza City – Two of the highest-ranking Christian clerics from the Holy Land traveled to Gaza on Friday, after three people were killed by Israeli gunfire at the Palestinian enclave’s sole Catholic church—a strike that drew widespread international condemnation, AFP reported.
The visit, considered highly unusual, took place after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep regret over the incident at the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, attributing the deaths to a “stray” round.
Access to Gaza remains tightly restricted by Israel, which on Friday continued its military operations; the civil defense agency reported that at least 14 more Palestinians were killed in additional Israeli strikes across the territory.
Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III led an “ecclesiastical delegation” to Gaza, where they met with local Christians in the wake of Thursday’s attack, both churches confirmed.
“The delegation conveyed the pastoral concern shared by the Holy Land churches and their care for the Christian community in Gaza,” according to a statement from the Latin Patriarchate.
“While in Gaza, they will meet members of the Christian community, offer their condolences and solidarity, and stand with those affected by the recent events,” the statement continued.
The Greek Orthodox Jerusalem Patriarchate described the visit as “a powerful demonstration” of unity and mutual support among the churches.
Last week, both clerics had traveled to the occupied West Bank, joining diplomats from over 20 nations after a historic Byzantine-era church there was attacked, allegedly by Israeli settlers.
The churches noted that their visit to Gaza was coordinated with aid organizations, allowing them to deliver food supplies and emergency medical aid alongside their pastoral mission.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said the delegation brought 500 tonnes of humanitarian aid for the local population.
“The Italian government urges Israel to halt military actions and to ensure the full safety of the two church leaders during their significant mission,” Tajani stated.