(Reuters) – Former U.S. Representative shared devastating news on Friday, revealing that a Greek Orthodox church in the Gaza Strip had been struck by an Israeli air attack, causing the death of several of his relatives.
“Our family is in deep pain,” expressed Amash on X. “May God provide protection to all Christians in Gaza, as well as the Israelis and Palestinians who are enduring suffering, irrespective of their beliefs or religion.”
Palestinian authorities reported that around 500 Muslims and Christians sought refuge inside the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrius, as Israeli bombings continued. Tragically, the health ministry of the Hamas-led government confirmed that 16 individuals lost their lives.
The Israeli military stated that the church suffered damage due to its proximity to a militant command center targeted in the strike. They added that they are currently reviewing the incident.
The Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem condemned the attack through an official statement.
Amash, a Palestinian-American, served as a Republican representative for Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2021. Known for his outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump, Amash left the Republican Party in 2019 and subsequently joined the Libertarian Party.
Since October 7th, Israel has imposed a blockade on Gaza following an incident where Hamas caused the loss of 1,400 lives in southern Israel. Palestinian health officials report that over 4,100 Palestinians have been killed, and the United Nations affirms that more than 1 million Palestinians have been displaced.
(Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
