Overview

• Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III made a rare entry into Gaza to witness extreme hunger and civilian suffering.
• Returning to Jerusalem, they denounced Gaza’s humanitarian collapse as “morally unacceptable” and called for an immediate end to the war.
• They challenged Israel’s account of stray ammunition behind the July 17 strike on Gaza’s Holy Family Church, which killed three civilians, and pressed for a full investigation.
• Despite Italy’s pledge of 500 tonnes of relief supplies, deliveries remain blocked by logistical hurdles at Gaza’s sealed crossings.
• Pope Leo XIV renewed appeals for civilian protection and a ceasefire during a phone call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.