The Gaza Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs reported that over 1,100 mosques have been destroyed by Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip, with significant damage to religious, administrative, and community centers.
According to the Gaza Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, the ongoing Israeli airstrikes have severely impacted the region’s religious infrastructure. Out of 1,244 mosques in Gaza, 1,109 have been completely or partially destroyed. Of these, 834 mosques were entirely demolished, and 275 are no longer usable.
The destruction has caused an estimated $500 million in damages, including the loss of religious and administrative centers, cemeteries, and endowment properties. In addition to mosques, three churches in Gaza have also been targeted and destroyed by the Israeli forces.
The damage has extended to Gaza’s cemeteries, with 40 out of 60 cemeteries affected, and 21 completely destroyed. Moreover, 643 movable endowment properties have been damaged, halting religious education services in these areas.
The conflict has also resulted in the loss of 315 Imams and religious speakers, who were martyred in Israeli strikes. Additionally, 27 ministry employees have been detained by the Israeli military.
In response, a new international initiative, Minarets Coalition, has been launched with the aim of supporting the reconstruction of Gaza’s mosques and religious institutions. The coalition will prioritize projects such as establishing temporary mosques, providing support to Imams and religious staff, and launching Quranic education programs.
Liberty News’ international correspondent states that the Gaza Ministry has called on the international community and Islamic nations to assist in rebuilding these destroyed religious institutions to restore social and spiritual services to the community.
LND/BAIZID
