USPG joins with our partner, the Diocese of Jerusalem, in condemning the recent Palm Sunday bombing of Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza. This is the fifth time the hospital has been hit since the escalation of the conflict in 2023 – this time at the beginning of Holy Week, one of the most important periods of the Christian calendar.

A statement released on 13 April by The Most Revd Hosam Naoum, Archbishop of the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East, details the damage:

“The twin strikes demolished the two-storey Genetic Laboratory and damaged the Pharmacy and the Emergency Department buildings. It also resulted in other collateral damage to the surrounding buildings, including the church building of St. Philip’s. We thank God that there were no injuries or deaths as a result of the bombing. However, one child who previously suffered a head-injury tragically died as a result of the rushed evacuation process.”

Al Ahli is the last functioning hospital in Gaza. The hospital has been the focus of our Lent Appeal, as it represents a place of compassion, care, and courage amidst unimaginable devastation. Despite the ongoing conflict, the team at Al Ahli has continued to serve their community around the clock, treating the injured, comforting the grieving, and saving lives with what little they have.

In the statement, Archbishop Hosam urges for support:

We call upon all governments and people of goodwill to intervene to stop all kinds of attacks on medical and humanitarian institutions. We pray and call for the end of this horrific war and the suffering of so many.

Read the full statement

The air strike has caused further damage to a hospital already stretched beyond its limits. Medical staff are risking their lives to keep going, and families still depend on this place for shelter and life-saving care.

In response, please join us in prayer:

Lord Jesus, in this Holy Week, we remember how you walked the road of suffering – carrying the weight of pain, injustice, and human sorrow. Today we lament the bombing of Al Ahli Hospital. We pray that you will be a very present help to the staff, patients and the Diocese of Jerusalem at this difficult time. Though the night feels long, we hold to the hope of Easter – that you have defeated death and light has overcome darkness.
Amen.