By Charles Igwe
The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, has strongly condemned the ongoing war in Gaza, describing Israel’s actions as “inexcusable,” especially following a deadly tank attack on the only Catholic church in the region.
The attack, which happened on Thursday, struck the Parish of the Holy Family in Gaza, killing three people and injuring several others, including the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli. Cardinal Pizzaballa visited the site the very next day to console the victims and assess the situation firsthand.
Speaking with Vatican Media, the cardinal expressed deep sadness and shock over the suffering he witnessed. He said that what struck him most during his visit were the countless tents now spread across Gaza, especially along the seafront, housing over a million people living in extreme conditions.
“These tents were not there before,” he said. “Now people are trapped with no homes, no food, and poor hygiene. The image of children in hospitals—some mutilated, some blinded by bombings—will never leave me.”
The church compound, which has become a refuge for hundreds of people fleeing the violence, celebrated Mass even amid the destruction. Pizzaballa said he was amazed by the resilience of the people, especially the children, who despite their hardships still showed signs of vitality and hope.
“They have not eaten meat or vegetables for months,” he noted. “Yet, I saw in them a desire to live and rebuild. As long as there is someone who still wants to change things, there is life.”
The cardinal also addressed reports that Israel was ordering evacuations from Gaza. He said most Palestinians had no intention of leaving their land. “They don’t know where to go, and they don’t want to leave. Their roots are here. This is their home, and they want to rebuild it,” he said.
Quoting Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Pizzaballa reiterated the Vatican’s firm stance against forced population transfers and collective punishment. “There will be no rivieras in Gaza,” he said, in reference to earlier political suggestions to turn Gaza into a tourist resort.
He emphasized that the Church holds no ill will toward the Jewish people or Israeli society, but it must speak out against unjust policies. “We have a moral duty to be clear and honest. This violence must stop,” he said.
The cardinal concluded by calling for prayers and concrete support for the suffering people of Gaza, especially those sheltering in churches, hospitals, and camps amid fear and devastation.
