Israeli Authorities Block Catholic Palm Sunday Observance at Jerusalem Holy Site

Israeli law enforcement officials barred Catholic clergy from accessing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem to conduct Palm Sunday services, according to statements from the Latin Patriarchate. This marks the first instance in hundreds of years that such religious observances have been obstructed at this location. The incident occurred on the Christian holiday commemorating Jesus's entry into Jerusalem. Jerusalem's significant religious landmarks, including the church, remain inaccessible due to ongoing regional hostilities, with the city experiencing repeated projectile attacks originating from Iran. The Catholic Church characterized the police action as unjustified and excessively severe. The closure of holy sites reflects broader security measures implemented during the current conflict.