As the Gaza war continues, tensions have risen not just on the battlefield but also in diplomatic relations. US President Donald Trump has reportedly expressed frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a longtime ally, after an Israeli airstrike hit a Catholic church in Gaza City, killing at least three people and injuring several others.
Israeli Airstrike Damages Gaza’s Only Catholic Church
On Thursday, amid continued Israeli bombing in Gaza, a strike hit the Holy Family Church, the only Catholic church in the Palestinian territory. The attack wounded around 10 people, including a priest, and damaged the church compound, where hundreds of Palestinians had sought refuge from the ongoing violence.
Trump Responds to Church Attack
During a White House press briefing, reporters asked about Trump’s reaction to the church strike. Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, confirmed that the President personally contacted Netanyahu.
“It was not a positive reaction. He called Prime Minister Netanyahu this morning to address the strikes on that church in Gaza,” Leavitt said.
She added that Netanyahu admitted the strike was a mistake and agreed to issue a public statement. “It was a mistake by the Israelis to hit that Catholic Church. That’s what the prime minister relayed to the president,” she explained.
State Department: Trump ‘Not Happy’ Is an Understatement
A spokeswoman from the US State Department also commented on Trump’s mood after the incident. “I think it’s an understatement to say that he (Trump) was not happy,” she said. The US has reportedly asked Israel to conduct a thorough investigation into the strike.
Three Killed, Including Priest Close to Pope
The Israeli attack on the Holy Family Church claimed at least three lives and injured ten, including Rev. Gabriel Romanelli, a priest known for his close ties to the late Pope Francis.
Vatican Reacts: Pope Calls for Peace
Pope Leo condemned the strike, expressing deep sorrow and emphasizing the need for dialogue, reconciliation, and lasting peace.
In an emotional statement, the Pope said he was “deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury caused by the military attack” and sent a message of closeness and support to Rev. Romanelli and his congregation.
Netanyahu Issues Statement After Trump’s Call
After speaking with Trump, Netanyahu released an official statement, expressing regret over the incident.
“Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza’s Holy Family Church. Every innocent life lost is a tragedy,” the statement said, acknowledging the tragic consequences of the strike.
