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Israeli police block Latin Patriarch from Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and a priest were prevented by Israeli police from entering Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday, prompting criticism from the Catholic Church and European leaders who said the move violated religious freedoms.

Mar 29th 2026 · Israel

Insights

  • Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and a priest were stopped from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass.
  • The Patriarchate said the blockage was unprecedented, disproportionate, and forced the leaders to abandon the traditional Mass for the first time in centuries.
  • Israeli police said all holy sites in Jerusalem have been closed since the start of the war in Iran and that large gatherings are banned for security and emergency access reasons.
  • Italy summoned Israel's ambassador and both Italy and France publicly condemned the police action as an attack on religious freedom.
  • The Latin Patriarchate cancelled the traditional procession and churches held smaller ceremonies under attendance limits, while the Vatican paid tribute to Middle East Christians but did not specifically comment on the incident.

Sources