Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III and Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa arrived in the Gaza Strip on a pastoral visit aimed at supporting local Christian communities and residents facing the consequences of a prolonged humanitarian crisis.

According to the Jerusalem Patriarchate, the church leaders were accompanied by Josef Blotz, Grand Hospitaller of the Sovereign Order of Malta, as well as representatives of the international humanitarian organization Malteser International.

The Patriarchate said the visit reflects the responsibility of Jerusalem’s churches toward both the faithful and the broader population of Gaza, where many families continue to endure difficult living conditions, fear, loss, and uncertainty amid the ongoing conflict.

During their visit, the patriarchs are expected to meet with clergy, members of religious communities, local Christian families, and residents affected by the humanitarian crisis. Church officials said the primary purpose of the trip is to provide spiritual support, strengthen hope, and express solidarity with those suffering from the effects of war.

The delegation will also focus on humanitarian assistance, healthcare, and the protection of human dignity. The participation of representatives from the Order of Malta and Malteser International highlights the commitment of religious organizations to providing aid to Gaza’s civilian population.

Catholic media reported that the church leaders received a warm welcome at the Holy Family Parish in Gaza, where parishioners greeted them with applause. Following a joint prayer service, Cardinal Pizzaballa said the presence of church leaders should serve as a reminder that the people of Gaza have not been forgotten by the international Christian community.

The visit is not the first by the two patriarchs to the enclave. They previously traveled to Gaza after a strike on the Holy Family Parish last summer that left three people dead and 11 others injured. At the time, the church leaders expressed support for the victims’ families and called on the international community to help bring an end to hostilities and promote reconciliation in the Holy Land.