Israeli Strikes
Airstrikes Hit Syrian Military Sites and Gaza Church, Prompting Global Reactions
On July 17, 2025, Israeli forces carried out major military strikes in both Syria and Gaza that caused civilian casualties and triggered widespread international backlash. Syrian government and military sites around Damascus and in the southern Suwayda province were struck, reportedly killing and injuring dozens; the Syrian government condemned these attacks as illegal aggression, and even the United States publicly distanced itself from Israel’s actions. Meanwhile, in Gaza, an Israeli shell struck Gaza City’s Holy Family Church, the enclave’s only Catholic church, which was sheltering hundreds of displaced civilians, killing at least three people and wounding several others, including the parish priest. Israeli authorities said the church strike was accidental and voiced regret. Still, the unprecedented attack on a place of worship drew criticism from Israel’s allies and religious leaders, adding to growing international calls for restraint and a ceasefire.
Syrian reports said at least 3 people were killed and 34 wounded in the Damascus strikes, and five Syrian security personnel died in the blast at the ministry site. The Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned the Israeli strikes as part of a “systematic…policy to ignite tension and chaos” and urged urgent international action. The United States government, which had been involved in bringing about a ceasefire involving Israel, publicly distanced itself from its actions. A State Department spokesperson said Washington “did not support” the Israeli strikes and had made its displeasure clear.
That same day, an Israeli strike hit the Holy Family Church in Gaza, the only Catholic church in the area. On Thursday morning, a shell struck the church compound in Gaza City, which was being used as a shelter by hundreds of displaced people. It is reported that two women and one man were killed in the blast, and several others were wounded. Among the injured was the parish priest, Father Gabriele Romanelli, who suffered a leg wound. The Catholic Authority for the area condemned the attack, stating that the victims had fled to the church seeking refuge “after their homes, possessions, and dignity had already been stripped away.” Israeli officials quickly expressed regret. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office issued a statement saying, “Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza’s Holy Family Church”, and pledged to investigate the incident further. The White House press secretary confirmed President Donald Trump was displeased about the church strike, describing his reaction as “not a positive” one.