The IDF has admitted that shrapnel from one of its shells inadvertently struck a Catholic church in Gaza, which was sheltering Christian and Muslim civilians.
Three people – two women and a man - were killed, according to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
The organisation named the deceased as Najwa Abu Daoud, Saad Issa Kostandi Salameh and Foumia Issa Latif Ayyad.
A statement from the Prime Minister's Office, but not issued in Prime Minister Netanyahu’s name, said: "Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza’s Holy Family Church.
"Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful.
"Israel is investigating the incident and remains committed to protecting civilians and holy sites."
It also thanked Pope Leo for his “words of comfort” after the pontiff avoided direct criticism of Israel in his own statement, while mourning the dead and calling for an end to the war.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry expressed "deep sorrow over the damage [to the church] and any civilian casualties" but insisted that Israel "never targets churches or religious sites and regrets any harm to a religious site or uninvolved civilians".
However, the mishap has reportedly gone down badly in Washington, with US President Trump raising the issue in a recent phone call with the Prime Minister Netanyahu, according to Channel 12's Amit Segal.
Asked about Trump’s thoughts on the developments, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters: “It was not a positive reaction.”
But it is understood that Netanyahu emphasised that the strike was accidental and ruled out any suggestion that it was targeted during the pair’s call.
To get more Israel news, click here to sign up for our free Israel Briefing newsletter.