Catholic cardinal stopped from Jerusalem's Church of Holy Sepulchre, Israel says it was for his safety
CBS News • • world
Key Points:
- Israeli police prevented Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass, citing security concerns amid the ongoing war with Iran.
- The Latin Patriarchate condemned the move as unprecedented and disproportionate, emphasizing it prevented a centuries-old tradition and disregarded the sensibilities of billions worldwide.
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the decision as a safety measure due to repeated Iranian missile threats near holy sites and promised plans to enable church leaders to worship in the coming days.
- The incident drew sharp criticism from international figures including the U.S. ambassador to Israel, Italian and French leaders, and Jordan's foreign ministry, who all called for respect of religious freedom and access to holy sites.
- Cardinal Pizzaballa held Mass and a prayer for peace at alternative locations, acknowledging the war's impact on Holy Week celebrations and expressing hope despite the restrictions and mourning from local Christian worshippers.
