Israeli Forces' Deadly Attack on Christian Women in Gaza Church Sparks Outrage

Two Christian women, an elderly mother and her daughter, were shot and killed by an Israeli soldier inside a Catholic church in Gaza City, where Christian families have sought shelter during the Israel-Hamas war. The shooting occurred without warning, and seven others were wounded while trying to protect others. The church has been targeted by Israeli bombardment, and a convent and a building housing disabled people were also struck. The Christian community in Gaza, one of the oldest in the Middle East, has dwindled in recent years due to the Israeli blockade and difficult living conditions. Italy's top diplomat has called on the Israeli government to protect Christian places of worship.