Access restrictions to Church of the Holy Sepulchre amid security concerns

On March 29, Israeli authorities prevented Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Custos Father Francesco Patton from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for Palm Sunday services. The Israeli Prime Minister's office stated this was a security measure, not an intentional exclusion, citing the ongoing conflict with Iran and the risk of missile debris. Authorities have limited access to the site to a maximum of 50 people, contingent on the availability of nearby shelters. The Latin Patriarchate criticized the decision as unprecedented and unjustified. Meanwhile, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem has sent an urgent letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Foreign Minister seeking clarity on the status of Holy Week events. A final decision on whether the Holy Fire ceremony will proceed is expected by April 1. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently coordinating with Israeli officials to ensure the safe transport of the Holy Fire to Greece despite these challenges.