Israeli Police Block Jerusalem Patriarch from Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday

Israeli police stopped Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, and Rev. Francesco Ielpo, the church’s official guardian, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass in Jerusalem’s Old City on Sunday, according to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.

The Patriarchate stated that the two religious leaders were compelled to turn back while en route to what is recognized as the holiest site in Christianity. This marked, according to the Patriarchate, the first time in centuries that Palm Sunday Mass could not be celebrated at the historic church, which stands at the site many believe to be where Jesus was crucified.

In response to international concern, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said police acted "out of special concern for his safety," citing recent conflict and security threats. The statement referenced missile attacks attributed to Iran earlier in the year, with one missile’s fragments reportedly landing near the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The office emphasized that all holy sites in Jerusalem had been closed to worshippers since the escalation of hostilities in February.

The decision drew condemnation from several international leaders. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered her support to Pizzaballa and those prevented from celebrating the Mass, describing the move as an offense to religious freedom. French President Emmanuel Macron called the incident part of a "worrying series of violations" involving Jerusalem's holy sites. Statements of concern and criticism were also issued by senior Italian officials, Germany’s ambassador to Israel, and the vice president of the European Parliament.

In place of the usual public gatherings, Palm Sunday services proceeded privately at the Monastery of Saint Saviour, as authorities had previously canceled the traditional procession and banned large public events due to ongoing security concerns. The Latin Patriarchate maintained that Pizzaballa and Ielpo’s attempted visit did not constitute a public procession.

Following mounting criticism, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office announced that a plan would be developed to allow church leaders to worship at the holy site during the remainder of Easter week. For now, restrictions around Jerusalem’s religious sites remain in effect, and the incident continues to draw strong international attention.