EBN-Gaza is home to some of the oldest churches and mosques globally, yet many have fallen victim to the extensive destruction caused by Israel’s military campaign.
Out of 117 religious sites reportedly damaged or destroyed between October 7, when Israel initiated its offensive, and December 31, 74 cases have been verified. Among these, 72 are mosques, and two are churches. The offensive by Israel was prompted by an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7.
An investigation utilizing satellite imagery and user-generated content was conducted to analyze evidence both before and after the buildings were struck.
Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist group governing Gaza, asserted that up to January 9, 378 mosques and three churches were impacted. However, this information has not been independently confirmed.
Contrarily, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) allege that Hamas fighters are utilizing places of worship for concealment and as launch sites for attacks—a claim strongly denied by Hamas.
‘An immediate death’
St. Porphyrius, among the oldest churches globally, holds deep historical significance in Gaza. The small Christian community, about 1,000 strong before the conflict, has a profound connection to this ancient church. Unfortunately, on October 19, an Israeli missile struck an outer structure, causing the tragic death of 18 people, including Marian’s brother-in-law Soliman. The incident, described as an instantaneous fatality, left the church grounds covered in white dust.
Rami Tarazi, present in one of the church’s halls during the event, characterized the explosion as a significant rocket missile, with the primary structure remaining unharmed. The aftermath revealed the recovery of 16 individuals in fragments and two complete bodies, including Rami’s cousin Suliman, who was engaged in conversation just an hour before the tragedy.
International humanitarian law deems intentional attacks on religious structures during conflict as war crimes, except when such sites are used for military purposes. The IDF shared videos depicting soldiers entering targeted religious buildings and showcasing tunnels claimed to be used by Hamas. The IDF stated that the church was not the intended target, but the incident is under review.
Some online images purportedly show Israeli soldiers disrespecting religious places. One image on X (formerly Twitter) shows a soldier posing in front of a fallen minaret graffitied with Hebrew words referencing the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The IDF called the soldier’s behavior severe, not in line with IDF values, and is investigating.
Dr. Georgia Andreou from the Institute of Archaeology at University College London described the destruction of holy and heritage sites in Gaza as the worst she has ever seen, emphasizing their great historical significance.
‘I miss the sound of prayer’
Many Gaza mosques have been destroyed, leading Palestinian Muslims to seek refuge away from their places of worship.
The Khalil Al-Rahman mosque in Khan Younis, frequented by Renad Alaa al-Bataa, was damaged in an airstrike. The IDF claims to target sites used by Hamas for military purposes, but it’s unclear how many verified religious sites were destroyed by the IDF or used by Hamas.
Faith becomes a solace amid destruction, with people finding refuge in places like St Porphyrius Church.
Despite hardship, individuals like Renad find comfort in the Quran, posting nostalgic photos on Instagram while enduring the challenges of displaced life.
