US EditionIsrael Reaches Security Agreement for Easter Services in Jerusalem, Easing Tensions
Easter services at Jerusalem’s Old City will proceed with limited attendance and strict security after Israeli police and Catholic leaders agreed to safeguard worshippers amid recent missile threats.
- On Monday, Israel Police and Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa established a mutual framework to allow Easter observances at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher under restricted conditions, resolving access tensions.
- Tensions peaked on Sunday when police blocked Pizzaballa and Father Francesco Ielpo from entering the church, citing security risks from missile fire during the ongoing war with Iran.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later intervened, ordering officials to grant the patriarch access, while Home Front Command guidelines restrict gatherings to 50 people due to missile debris threats.
- Ceremonies including the Holy Fire will proceed in a symbolic, limited format, with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem ensuring liturgies are broadcast live to the faithful worldwide.
- The Church of the Holy Sepulcher operates under a 19th-century Status Quo agreement regulating worship among Christian denominations, which authorities must balance against the complex security reality of Operation Roaring Lion.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Israel reaches security agreement for Easter services in Jerusalem, easing tensions
Israeli police and Catholic Church leaders sought to ease tensions ahead of Easter after a Palm Sunday incident in which senior church officials were briefly blocked from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The church is known for holding the tomb of Jesus. Israeli police said the restrictions were imposed during the war with Iran because of what they described as a “real and present danger” from missile fire and falling debris in Jerusal…
Jerusalem: Easter celebrations ensured at Holy Sepulchre
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land say an agreement has been reached with Israeli authorities to ensure the celebration of Easter celebrations at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Restrictions linked to the ongoing conflict, however, remain in place, and liturgies will be streamed for the faithful around the world. Read all
Jerusalem Churches Reach Temporary Deal With Israeli Authorities Over Holy Week Access
Father Anthony Wieck Holy sites stand out in Jerusalem on the afternoon of Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. The announcement came after the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem and the custos of the Holy Land were restricted from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday.
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