Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Mourns Two Christian Women Killed in Israeli Airstrike in Gaza

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of two Palestinian Christian women killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City. The attack occurred in the Rimal neighborhood, where an apartment was struck, resulting in the deaths of five individuals, including a mother and her daughter. Several others were injured, according to medical sources cited by Anadolu Agency.

Pizzaballa conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing his grief over the loss of two Christian women. A funeral service is scheduled to take place at the Church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza City at 12:00 local time on Saturday. This event reflects the ongoing mourning within the Christian community in the region.

The Porphyrios Greek Orthodox Church in Gaza City also extended its condolences to the families of the victims. In a Facebook post, the church noted that Patriarchal Vicar Bishop Alexios, along with priest Archimandrite Silas and congregation members, shared their deepest sympathies. This response underscores the solidarity within the Christian community in the face of tragedy.

The attack occurred amid a ceasefire agreement that was in effect in the Gaza Strip since October 10, 2025. However, the Israeli military has continued to kill over 1,400 Palestinians and injure more than 5,000 others since the ceasefire began, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. This raises concerns about the adherence to agreed-upon pauses in hostilities.

Since October 2023, the Israeli military has been responsible for the deaths of over 74,000 Palestinians and the wounding of more than 175,000 others. The offensive has also led to the destruction of approximately 90% of Gaza’s infrastructure, leaving the region in dire humanitarian conditions. These figures highlight the extensive impact of the conflict on civilian life.

The loss of innocent lives, including those of Christian women, calls for reflection on the need for peace and justice. As the Bible reminds us, “If it is possible, whenever you have the opportunity, live in peace with all” (Romans 12:18). Such a call to peace remains relevant in the context of ongoing conflict and suffering.

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