Israel launched air strikes on the oldest church in the Palestinian Gaza Strip, the Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church, on Thursday (19/10/2013). Al Jazeera reported that dozens of people were also injured in the attack and at least eight people were killed. According to The National's report, 16 people died as a result of the Israeli attack on this church.
The church has become a temporary shelter for residents since Israeli troops and the Palestinian militia, Hamas, went to war. The church courtyard and corridors became a place of refuge for Muslims and Christians in Gaza during the war.
The Bishop at Saint Porphyrius Elias Church said that every attack on a church is not only an attack on religion, but also an attack on humanity. "Our humanity calls on us to offer peace and warmth to all people in need," said Elias, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
This place of worship is a building that has a long history. This church was built in 1150 to 1160 AD by the Crusaders.
This church also often provides comfort to Palestinians, especially in difficult times like now, as quoted by Al Jazeera. As a result of Israel's bombardment of Gaza, public facilities such as hospitals and churches were also destroyed due to rocket attacks.
The attack on the church took place three days after rockets hit Al Ahli Baptist Hospital in the Gaza Strip. This incident killed more than 500 people and injured hundreds of others. This is because the hospital has become a shelter for Gaza residents who need care and protection amidst the Israeli onslaught.
