Did Israel block the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?

In March 2026, Israeli authorities significantly restricted access to the 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

 as part of broader security measures during a conflict involving Iran. 

Key details regarding the incident include:

• Palm Sunday Blockage: On March 29, 2026, Israeli police prevented the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the Guardian of the Holy Sepulchre, Fr. Francesco Ielpo, from entering the church to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass. Church officials noted this was the first time in centuries that heads of the church were barred from the site for this liturgy.
• Reason Provided: Israeli officials cited safety concerns due to the ongoing war, noting that the Old City's dense layout lacks adequate bomb shelters for large gatherings. A missile fragment had reportedly fallen in the Old City nearby just days prior.
• Reversal: Following a swift international backlash from the Vatican, the U.S., and European leaders, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reversed the decision on March 30, 2026. He ordered that church leaders be given "full and immediate access" to conduct services.
• Current Status: A "limited prayer framework" was subsequently established through an agreement between the police and the Latin Patriarchate, allowing for symbolic, restricted ceremonies and broadcasts for the remainder of Holy Week. 

Other major religious sites, including the Western Wall and Al-Aqsa Mosque, were also subject to varying degrees of closure or strict gathering limits during this period.