Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Pope Urges Ceasefire After Gaza Church Airstrike Tragedy

7/20/2025

46 6

Summary

Pope Urges Ceasefire

Pope Leo XIV is under fire for his reaction to an Israeli airstrike that devastated Gaza's sole Catholic church, resulting in three deaths and ten injuries, including the parish priest. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni labeled the attack "unacceptable," while Israel expressed regret, asserting it was unintentional. The pope urged for an immediate ceasefire and open dialogue.

Summary

Cardinals Deliver Aid

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III made a poignant visit to Gaza on July 18, 2025, in the wake of a devastating Israeli strike on the Holy Family Church that claimed three lives. They brought much-needed humanitarian aid and stood firmly with Gaza's Christian community, denouncing the violence and urgently calling for a ceasefire amidst the escalating humanitarian crisis.

History

Historical Context

The 1948 Arab-Israeli War initiated a cycle of territorial and religious conflicts, with Pope Pius XII condemning violence against civilians. This historical context resonates today as Pope Leo XIV responds to recent Israeli airstrikes, advocating for dialogue and a ceasefire. The ongoing struggle for coexistence in the region underscores the enduring impact of these historical tensions on contemporary peace efforts.

1 of 3

Pope Urges Ceasefire

Pope Leo XIV is under fire for his reaction to an Israeli airstrike that devastated Gaza's sole Catholic church, resulting in three deaths and ten injuries, including the parish priest. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni labeled the attack "unacceptable," while Israel expressed regret, asserting it was unintentional. The pope urged for an immediate ceasefire and open dialogue.

1 / 3