As the Gaza war continues, US President Donald Trump expressed anger toward Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This happened after Israeli airstrikes hit Gaza’s only Catholic Church. As a result, at least three people died and ten others suffered injuries.
On Thursday, Israeli forces carried out fresh strikes in Gaza. During the bombardment, one missile struck the Holy Family Church in Gaza City. Notably, this church is the only Catholic Church in the Palestinian territory. The attack damaged the church’s compound. Furthermore, hundreds of Palestinians had been sheltering there to escape the ongoing war.
Trump Quickly Responds
Soon after the attack, Trump reacted strongly. He immediately called Netanyahu. According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, “It was not a positive reaction. He called Prime Minister Netanyahu this morning to address the strikes on that church in Gaza.”
Additionally, Leavitt said that Netanyahu promised to release a 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.
Meanwhile, the US State Department also commented. A spokeswoman said, “I think it’s an understatement to say that he (Trump) was not happy.” She further confirmed that the US requested Israel to investigate the incident.
Attack Leaves Three Dead, Sparks Condemnation
The Israeli strike killed at least three people. It also injured ten more, including Rev. Gabriel Romanelli, the church priest. Interestingly, he was known to have close ties with the late Pope Francis.
Soon after, Pope Leo condemned the attack. He stated he was “deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury caused by the military attack.” Moreover, the Pope called for “dialogue, reconciliation and enduring peace in the region.” He also sent a message of support to Rev. Romanelli and his parish.
Netanyahu Issues Regret After Trump’s Call
Following Trump’s phone call, Netanyahu issued an official statement. He said, “Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza’s Holy Family Church. Every innocent life lost is a tragedy.”
Therefore, Israel admitted the strike was a mistake, but only after the US intervened.