WCC condemns attacks on St Porphyrius Church in Gaza and Golan Heights

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay condemned two recent attacks on 27 July in Golan Heights and a 29 July attack on the St Porphyrius Church in Gaza, where people have for many months been taking refuge from bombardments.

The most recent attack resulted in the collapse of two walls on the upper floor of the building and in the dining room, next to an area where displaced people have taken shelter. Some who were near the collapsed walls got injuries.

“It is with profound sorrow and deep concern that we have received the news of the attack on St Porphyrius Church in northern Gaza, resulting in injuries to several individuals,” said Pillay. 

St Porphyrius, believed to be the world’s third oldest church, was also hit by a bombardment on 20 October 2023 in an attack that killed at least 16 people. Once again, this sacred site, space of refuge for civilians, has become a scene of tragedy, pain, and despair,” said Pillay. 

Last Saturday, at least 12 people, including children, were killed when a rocket hit a village in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, Israeli officials said, in an attack that has raised fears of a major escalation in the long-running conflict. 

The attack on Golan Heights and the St Porphyrius Church is a stark reminder of the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and a sustainable and just resolution to the conflict in Gaza,” said Pillay. “We stand in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy and pray for the swift recovery of the injured.” “We unequivocally condemn these attacks on civilians. These actions not only harm innocent people but also exacerbate the already dire situation faced by the people of Gaza and Golan Heights, further fueling the cycle of violence. Governments have the responsibility of protecting and securing the rights of all civilians.”