Jerusalem Crackdown Jolts Easter Plans at Holy Sites

Clear Facts

• Israeli police restricted access to major Christian holy sites in Jerusalem’s Old City during Palm Sunday observances.
• Authorities cited public safety concerns over ongoing missile threats from the Iranian regime.
• The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem was stopped while trying to reach the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for private Mass.

Israeli officials closed the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and other sacred locations as the conflict with Iran entered its fifth week.

The restrictions disrupted traditional processions and forced religious leaders to seek alternative ways to mark the start of Holy Week.

Police said Home Front Command directives apply to all religious groups to protect residents and historic areas.

They added that the current threats do not discriminate between faiths and require strict safety protocols for everyone.

“Under Home Front Command directives, life-saving restrictions apply to all holy sites in the Old City — for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike,” Israeli police posted to X.

“The Old City has been targeted by murderous missiles multiple times this month, alongside constant fire on residential areas.”

The Catholic Church described the measures as disproportionate. It said the Church of the Holy Sepulchre had been hosting private Masses since the war began.

Spokesmen argued there was no justification for barring a small number of clergy from entering the site for non-public services.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni rebuked the decision, calling the prevention of sacred rites an offense against religious freedom.

President Isaac Herzog expressed sorrow over the incident while reaffirming Israel’s commitment to protecting civilians from Iranian terror threats.

“I clarified that the incident stemmed from security concerns due to the continuous threat of missile attacks from the Iranian terror regime against the civilian population in Israel,” President Herzog wrote.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied any malicious intent behind the closure.

He said security officials are developing a plan to allow church leaders access.

Small religious venues in the Old City may remain open if they are near approved bomb shelters and have gatherings of fewer than 50 people.

The government continues to work with the Patriarch to balance the protection of life with the freedom of worship.

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