Israel Reverses Ban on Holy Sepulchre Access After Global Outcry
A major diplomatic and interfaith incident erupted in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday when Israeli police prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and the Custos of the Holy Land from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Mass. The initial police decision, which authorities claimed was due to security concerns and the Old City's narrow streets that limit emergency vehicle access, was condemned by church officials as an 'extreme departure from basic principles of reasonableness' and a 'grave precedent' for religious freedom. The blockade triggered swift international condemnation, with world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, voicing concern and calling for the protection of worship rights in Jerusalem. The widespread backlash from the global community and religious institutions placed significant pressure on the Israeli government to reconsider its position. In response to the outcry, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he had ordered 'relevant authorities' to grant Cardinal Pizzaballa 'full and immediate access' to the church. Following the reversal, the Latin Patriarchate subsequently confirmed that a temporary agreement had been reached with Israeli authorities, ensuring that Holy Week and Easter liturgies at Christianity's most sacred site can proceed as planned.
Prefer swipe-first reading?
Install the app to keep reading with faster loads and a smoother mobile experience.
Sources
Palm Sunday: Cardinal Pizzaballa blocked by Israeli police from Holy Sepulchre as Pope Leo denounces war in Rome - America Magazine
Describing the incident in which Cardinal Pizzaballa and the Custos of the Holy Land were denied access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as a “grave precedent,” the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land issued a joint statement, the full text of which is quoted ...
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa said the initial decision was an "extreme departure from basic principles of reasonableness, freedom of worship" Israel's prime minister has said the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem will now have "full and immediate access" to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, ...
Netanyahu restores Latin patriarch's access to Jerusalem's Holy Sepulchre | Euronews
The Catholic Church's Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem would regain access to Christianity's holiest site after the decision to block him from entering the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday triggered international condemnation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said. ... Police prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa ...
Police reach agreement with Latin Patriarchate to allow limited groups in Church | The Jerusalem Post
French President Emmanuel Macron ... for freedom of worship to be ensured in Jerusalem. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he had ordered Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa to be granted full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre later Sunday ...
Catholic cardinal to be allowed to enter Jerusalem's Church of Holy Sepulchre after being stopped by Israeli authorities - CBS News
The Israeli police earlier in the day told the Agence France-Presse that they had received a request from Pizzaballa and "it was clarified that it could not be approved," and noted that Jerusalem's Old City is "a complex area that does not allow access for large emergency and rescue vehicles" ...
Following a widespread backlash, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had asked “relevant authorities” to allow Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch, to hold services at Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre “as he wishes.”
Israel to allow Church leaders to celebrate Holy Week, Easter at holy sites, Latin patriarchate says | The Catholic Weekly
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem said an agreement with Israeli authorities will allow Holy Week and Easter liturgies at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, after Catholic leaders were initially barred on Palm Sunday.
Jerusalem Churches Reach Temporary Deal With Israeli Authorities Over Holy Week Access| National Catholic Register
The announcement came after the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem and the custos of the Holy Land were restricted from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday.
Fact Checks
Related news
Gaza Famine Claims Eased But Crisis Remains Severe Amid Ongoing Conflict
The situation in Gaza has shown signs of improvement regarding food insecurity, with the world’s leading authority confirming that famine conditions have ended in parts of the territory. This reduction is attributed to decreased fighting and increased aid access, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). Despite these positive developments, monitoring organizations caution that the crisis is far from resolved. Experts warn that most families still lack adequate food, and two-thirds of Gazans may face acute hunger by the end of the year. The gains are deemed fragile, as high prices, aid uncertainty, and persistent hostilities continue to keep the enclave in a state of severe crisis.
US-Iran Conflict Escalates Amid Strikes, Threats, and Intelligence Tensions
The United States has launched a fresh barrage of strikes against Iran, leading to heightened tensions and political debate over military action. President Trump has warned of a major escalation as the conflict stretches into its thirteenth night, while Republican hawks urge him to unleash major combat operations. This renewed bombing campaign has occurred amid concerns over intelligence cooperation between the US and Iran, with Iranian officials warning that they will hold accountable any state aiding the United States in attacks. Furthermore, US forces are deploying drones against targets, and the US has indicated that damages to shipping could be covered using Iranian assets.
Nicaragua Parliament Moves to Abolish Elections Following Ortega's Ban
Nicaragua's parliament has moved to abolish elections, following President Daniel Ortega's decree that there would be no further electoral processes. This legislative action is intended to codify the decision and ensure the country's 'peace, security and stability,' reflecting Ortega's effort to extend his nearly two-decade rule and eliminate opposition chances. The move has drawn sharp condemnation from the international community. The United States accused Ortega of leading a dictatorship, while UN rights officials urged for the restoration of freedoms and the rule of law. Critics compare Ortega's actions to those of world strongmen, raising questions about why major powers are not responding with similar pressure.
Record Heat Wave Costs UK Economy Over $1.5 Billion and Strains European Infrastructure
A recent record-breaking heat wave across Europe has resulted in significant economic damage, with studies estimating the cost to the UK economy alone at over $1.5 billion. This financial toll includes lost working hours and highlights the urgent need for investment in climate adaptation measures. Beyond the financial impact, the extreme temperatures have strained critical infrastructure, pushing power plants to their limits and causing ecological damage, such as the death of certain trees. Furthermore, experts warn that the heat wave exposes systemic issues, including fragmented EU capital markets hindering energy transition financing and rising insurance costs that necessitate greater government intervention to protect consumers.
FIFA World Cup 2030 Set for Expansion and Six Host Nations
The FIFA World Cup 2030 is set to feature significant structural changes, including an expansion from 48 to 64 teams. This historic tournament will be hosted across six nations spanning three continents, according to official announcements and statements from football authorities. Reports indicate that this change has already been discussed publicly, with CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez reportedly 'leaking' the proposal. Furthermore, specific nations like Portugal, Spain, and Morocco have been mentioned as potential hosts for the event. RTÉ has secured free-to-air broadcasting rights for the tournament, which will be hosted across Spain.
Victims Demand Restitution from Iran in Peace Deal Negotiations
A coalition of victims impacted by Iranian-sponsored terrorism has publicly urged the U.S. government, including President Trump and Congress, to mandate that Iran provide restitution before any financial agreements are finalized. These victims and their representatives have demanded that Iran pay reparations, emphasizing that funds must be returned or unfrozen before any peace deal is considered. The group also called for the administration to refill empty compensation funds with Iran's money, referencing agreements like the June 17 MOU.
Take Yomuyo with you
Download the mobile app for personalized headlines and quick access to breaking stories.