Unprecedented tensions in Jerusalem: Palm Sunday service blocked by authorities at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Israeli police prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the leader of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate the liturgy on Palm Sunday. This is the first time in centuries that church leaders have been prevented from celebrating this liturgy. The incident occurred against the backdrop of tensions between Israel and Iran, which led to the closure of holy sites in Jerusalem.

The traditional procession from the Mount of Olives was also suspended due to restrictions imposed by the Israeli authorities. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem condemned this decision, considering it a disproportionate measure and a violation of the freedom of worship, expressing its sorrow for the affected Christian faithful. Additionally, the Israeli police restricted access for Muslim worshippers to the Temple Mount during Ramadan, intensifying religious tensions in the area.