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Israel Bars Church Leaders from Palm Sunday Mass for First Time in Centuries

Israeli police barred Catholic leaders from Palm Sunday mass at Jerusalem's Church of Holy Sepulchre, a move the church termed unprecedented in centuries. This occurs under heightened security measures in East Jerusalem due to conflict with Iran, including bans on Muslim access to Al Aqsa Mosque and limits on Jewish prayer. Italy and the Vatican have condemned the action, with Italy planning diplomatic protests. Israeli authorities cite public safety concerns, but critics argue it violates religious freedom. The incident underscores tensions over access to holy sites during sensitive religious periods. It highlights the broader impact of regional conflicts on interfaith practices in Jerusalem.

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Israel Bars Church Leaders from Palm Sunday Mass for First Time in Centuries

Israeli police prevented senior Catholic leaders, including Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, from entering the Church of Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem to celebrate Palm Sunday mass, an event the church called unprecedented in centuries.

Church's Accusation

  • The Latin Patriarchate stated that the leaders were stopped en route privately and compelled to turn back.
  • It described the incident as a "grave precedent" that disregards the sensibilities of global Christians during Holy Week.
  • The Patriarchate accused Israeli authorities of a "hasty and fundamentally flawed decision" with improper considerations.

Security Restrictions in Jerusalem

  • Israel has tightened access to religious sites in East Jerusalem amid tensions with Iran.
  • Key restrictions include:
    • Complete ban on Muslim worshippers at Al Aqsa Mosque since late February, including Ramadan.
    • Limited Jewish prayer at the Western Wall to 50 individuals per day.
    • Closure of holy sites lacking standard protected spaces, citing safety concerns.
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International and Vatican Response

  • Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the ban as an "insult" to religious freedom.
  • Italy plans to summon the Israeli ambassador in Rome; Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called the action unacceptable.
  • The Vatican expressed concern, with Pope Leo praying for Middle Eastern Christians unable to observe holy days.
  • Eight Muslim states, including Saudi Arabia and Turkey, condemned Al Aqsa's closure as a "flagrant violation" of international law.

Israeli Police Justification

  • Police stated all holy sites in Jerusalem's Old City are closed to worshippers for public safety.
  • They cited the area's complexity, which hinders emergency vehicle access, as a key reason.

Religious and Historical Context

  • Palm Sunday initiates Holy Week, Christianity's most sacred period, commemorating Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.
  • The Church of Holy Sepulchre is believed to be the site of Jesus' burial and resurrection.
  • The Patriarchate had already cancelled the traditional Palm Sunday procession due to conflict.
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