The Orthodox Cultural Centre in Gaza was completely destroyed by an Israeli airstrike on the Tel Al-Hawa region on Tuesday, October 31.
According to Anadolu, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem strongly condemned the attack on the Orthodox Cultural Centre, saying it was a clear sign of Israel’s determination to destroy civilian infrastructure and shelters for those trapped in the enclave.
![A view from debris of Orthodox Cultural Center at Tel Al Hawa neighborhood after it was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, Gaza on October 31, 2023. Photo: Anadolu.](https://greekherald.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/A-view-from-debris-of-Orthodox-Cultural-Center-at-Tel-Al-Hawa-neighborhood-after-it-was-hit-by-an-Israeli-airstrike-in-Gaza-City-Gaza-on-October-31-2023.jpg)
“Such attacks on civilians, particularly children, cannot be justified on rational or humanitarian grounds,” the Patriarchate said.
In response to the attack, the Israeli government has imposed a blockade on the Gaza Strip, cutting off fuel, electricity, and water, and reducing aid deliveries, MEMO reported.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, rejected growing calls for a cease-fire by the Patriarchate and world leaders, saying it would be a “surrender” to Hamas.