The IDF has confirmed that a mortar accidentally struck the Holy Family Church in Gaza City on July 17 due to munitions deviation, prompting a humanitarian response and new fire-control measures.
Gaza City, July 17, 2025 – The Israel Defense Forces’ Southern Command has completed a formal inquiry into the incident that damaged the Holy Family Church during military operations last Thursday in Gaza City. The investigation confirmed that the church was inadvertently hit by a mortar due to an unintentional deviation in IDF fire, resulting in structural damage and injuries to several Gazan civilians.
Responding to concerns raised by Christian leadership, including the Patriarch in Jerusalem, the IDF coordinated with COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories) to ensure emergency humanitarian aid—including food, medicine, and medical equipment—reached the affected site.
In a statement, the IDF said:
“The IDF directs its strikes solely at military targets and strives to limit harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure, including religious institutions. We regret any injury or damage caused.”
Further, the IDF coordinated the entry of a delegation of Christian clergy from the Greek and Latin Patriarchates, who were granted access to visit the Latin Church in Gaza. The army also facilitated the evacuation of the wounded for medical care outside the conflict zone.
As a corrective measure, the IDF confirmed it has updated its fire-control protocols and reinforced guidelines for operations near religious and civilian-sensitive structures, with additional steps taken to enhance targeting accuracy and prevent recurrence.
