Netanyahu: Security Concerns Behind Ban on Patriarch's Entry to Holy Sepulchre

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the ban on the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem's access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to preside over Palm Sunday mass was due to security concerns and not malicious intent. Israeli police prevented Patriarch Pizzaballa from entering the church, citing safety concerns given the current situation. Simultaneously, Israeli security forces are working on a plan to allow religious officials to pray at the church in the coming days. This ban comes during a period of heightened tension and restrictions on religious gatherings, including assemblies in synagogues, churches, and mosques, due to the situation in the Middle East.