Following a controversial Easter Sunday ban, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has pledged access for Christian leaders to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Netanyahu’s Office Addresses Easter Sunday Incident
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Christian leaders would be permitted to hold masses at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This assurance comes after Israeli police barred Jerusalem Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from entering the church on Palm Sunday, sparking widespread condemnation.
According to the Times of Israel, the Prime Minister’s office explained the decision was due to security concerns, stating there was “no bad intention, only concern for his (the Cardinal’s) safety.”
Iran Attacks and Security Concerns
Netanyahu’s office reported that Iran has repeatedly attacked locations of significance to the three monotheistic religions in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles in recent days. Debris from one missile reportedly fell meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Police Prevent Access to Church
Israeli police also prevented Cardinal Pizzaballa and Custos of the Holy Land Father Francesco Ielpo from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for Mass, as reported by the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Plan for Future Access
In response to the criticism, the Prime Minister’s office announced preparations for a plan to allow Christian leaders to conduct religious services at the church.
Regional Conflict Context
The events unfold against a backdrop of conflict initiated on February 28th, when US and Israeli forces began military action against Iran, which retaliated with attacks on targets in the Middle East, including Israeli cities.
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