Palestinian sources report that the Israeli occupation shelled the area surrounding the Church of Saint Porphyrius, the only active Christian church in the Gaza Strip. The strike caused damage to the historic compound and forced dozens of displaced civilians, including Christian families, to evacuate in fear.

Located in Gaza’s Old City, the church has long served as a shelter for people fleeing bombardment. In a previous attack in October 2023, an Israeli airstrike on the same church compound killed at least 18 civilians, according to Human Rights Watch. The renewed shelling has sparked outrage and deep concern among Palestinians, who accuse the occupation of systematically destroying places of worship.

The Church of Saint Porphyrius, dating back to the fifth century, is a rare symbol of Gaza’s Christian presence. Palestinians view its repeated targeting as part of a broader campaign that shows no respect for civilian life or religious sanctity.