Three Killed in Gaza Church Strike Amidst Netanyahu's Vows to Protect Christians

JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently reiterated his commitment to Christian communities, stating, "We cherish our Christian friends. We protect the Christian holy sites." This message, shared via a tweet by Eyal Yakoby, comes amidst ongoing scrutiny regarding the safety of Christian sites and populations in the region, particularly following a deadly incident involving a church in Gaza.

The Prime Minister's assertion follows a July 2025 incident where an Israeli tank shell mistakenly struck the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuring others, including the parish priest. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) expressed regret, stating that fragments from a shell fired during operational activity hit the church inadvertently, and an investigation is underway. Pope Leo XIV and other international figures condemned the strike, with the Vatican expressing deep sadness.

Netanyahu has frequently emphasized Israel's role as a guardian of Christianity in the Middle East, a theme he highlighted at a recent Christian conference. He has argued that Israel protects Christians unlike any other country in the region, contrasting the thriving Christian community in Israel with declining populations in areas under Palestinian Authority control. This narrative often seeks to foster strong ties with Christian evangelical communities globally, who represent a significant base of support for Israel.

However, Christian leaders and human rights organizations have voiced concerns over increasing incidents of harassment, vandalism, and aggression against Christians and their properties in Jerusalem and the West Bank. Reports indicate a rise in anti-Christian acts, with some church officials asserting that the current political climate emboldens extremists. These incidents, alongside the Gaza church strike, present a complex picture of the challenges faced by Christian communities.

The Israeli government maintains its commitment to religious freedom and the protection of holy sites. Yet, critics argue that a lack of decisive action against perpetrators and an unwillingness to prioritize the issue by some officials contribute to the ongoing vulnerabilities. The strategic importance of Christian support for Israel, particularly from evangelical groups, underscores the diplomatic and public relations implications of these incidents.