The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited “security reasons” regarding the ban on the cardinal Pichabala entering the Holy Sepulchre.
“Today, due to particular concern for his safety, the Jerusalem police prevented the Catholic Patriarch Cardinal Pichabala from celebrating mass at the Holy Sepulchre Church. There was absolutely no malicious intent, only concern to ensure his protection,” the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office wrote on Platform X.
“However, as Holy Week begins for Christians around the world, Israeli security forces are working on a plan to allow religious officials to pray (at the Holy Sepulchre temple) in the coming days,” it added.
The blocking today, March 29, by Israeli police of the entry of Patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Pierbatista Pichabala, Patriarch of Jerusalem, and the head of the Franciscans in the Holy Land, Father Francesco Ielpo, into the church was a move that provoked strong international reaction and outrage.
Plan for safe access
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Following the international outcry, Netanyahu’s office issued a second statement, stressing that planning will take place so that all religious leaders will have access in the coming days.
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“This action already has significant international repercussions, but Israel is working on a plan so that religious leaders can pray safely in the coming days,” Netanyahu’s office said, assuring that there was no malicious intent.
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Restrictions on public gatherings
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At the start of Israel’s and the United States’ attack on Iran on February 28, Israeli authorities banned large gatherings, including gatherings of worshippers in synagogues, churches and mosques, notably at the Al Aqsa Mosque – Islam’s third holiest site – during the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims, and limited public gatherings to about 50 people.
Police justified their decision by stating that the layout of the Old City and the holy sites is “a complex area” that does not allow rapid access for first responders in the event of an attack, posing a real risk to people’s lives.
