Jerusalem Cardinal Brings Aid To Gaza Church Destroyed By Gaza

JAKARTA - Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the highest Catholic official in Jerusalem, entered Gaza on Friday to bring humanitarian aid and support to the victims of the Israeli attack on the only Catholic church in the Palestinian territories.

Three people were killed and several others injured in an attack on the Holy Family Church complex in Gaza City on Thursday, July 17.

Photographs released by the church showed his roof hit by an attack near the main cross, scorched the stone fasad, and the windows broke.

The church has offered protection to hundreds of Palestinians since the start of Israeli military operations against Hamas in the area in October 2023, following the group's deadly attack on Israel.

In an interview with the Italian daily, Corriere della Sera, Pizzaballa said the presence of Catholics would remain in Gaza "No matter what".

Pizzaballa also expressed doubts about Israel's statement the attack was a mistake.

"We are not the target. They said it was a mistake. Even though everyone here believes it's not a mistake," Pizzaballa said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday blamed "strengthening ambulances" and said his country was investigating the incident and remains committed to protecting civilians and holy places.

It is very rare for foreign officials to be allowed into Gaza, as Israel has basically closed its borders.

Pizzaballa was accompanied by Theophilos III, Greek Orthodox Patriarch Jerusalem.

The two religious leaders carried "100s of tons of food supplies as well as first aid boxes and much-needed medical equipment," said Pizzaballa's Latin Jerusalem Patriarchate.

The assistance is not only aimed at the small Christian community in Gaza, but also for "as many families as possible", the Patriarkat said, adding that the aid also ensures evacuation of those injured in church attacks.

Pope Leo said he was "deeply saddened" by the attack but refused to blame Israel.

Leo contacted cardinals and Theophilos on Friday to express his support for their mission.