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Historic Ban on Church Leaders at Holy Sepulchre for Palm Sunday Service

KVIA•Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 2:16 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

In an unprecedented move, Israeli police have barred Catholic leaders from celebrating Palm Sunday Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, marking the first time in centuries this has occurred. The Latin Patriarchate condemned the decision as a serious violation of religious freedom, especially significant during Holy Week, which commemorates Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The ban comes amid heightened security measures due to ongoing conflicts, with access to various religious sites in East Jerusalem being restricted. Italian officials have expressed outrage, labeling the ban an insult to believers and announcing plans to protest the decision. Israeli authorities, while emphasizing safety concerns, are reportedly working on a plan to allow church leaders to worship at the site in the coming days.

Key Details: • Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a crucial time for Christians. • Israeli police cited security concerns for restricting access to the church. • Italian government plans to summon the Israeli ambassador in protest. • Pope Leo expressed solidarity with Christians in the Middle East during mass.

israel catholic-church jerusalem religious-freedom palm-sunday

People & Organizations

Benjamin NetanyahuJerusalemGiorgia MeloniAntonio TajaniIsraeli PoliceCardinal Pierbattista PizzaballaChurch of the Holy SepulchreOld CityLatin Patriarchate

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