Israel restores church access after Palm Sunday row
Israel’s leadership has reversed course after a controversial incident involving access to one of Christianity’s holiest sites during a sensitive religious period. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa will now be granted “full and immediate access” to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, following earlier restrictions that prevented him from holding Palm Sunday Mass. The decision to block the cardinal had sparked widespread criticism internationally. The site, believed to mark the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, holds deep significance for Christians worldwide. According to Israeli authorities, the restriction was initially imposed due to security concerns. Netanyahu stated that the Old City of Jerusalem had been under threat from missile attacks linked to Iran, and limiting access to religious sites was intended to protect worshippers. However, the move drew sharp reactions. Mike Huckabee described the […]
