Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has condemned Israeli police for preventing the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem from celebrating Palm Sunday mass, describing the move as an affront to religious freedom.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem had earlier revealed that Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa was stopped from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s holiest sites, where he was scheduled to lead the important Palm Sunday service.
In a strongly worded statement, Meloni said the incident was “an offence not only to the faithful but to any community that respects religious freedom,” adding to growing international criticism over the development.
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also reacted, confirming that he had summoned Israel’s ambassador to seek clarification over the incident.
The restrictions come amid heightened security measures following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East after US Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. Since then, Israeli authorities have banned large gatherings at religious sites, including synagogues, churches, and mosques, and limited public events to around 50 people.
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian calendar, commemorating the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem ahead of his crucifixion and resurrection. The occasion typically draws thousands of worshippers, especially during processions from the Mount of Olives into the Old City.
Due to the restrictions, the Latin Patriarchate also cancelled the traditional Palm Sunday procession, significantly altering this year’s observance.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV, speaking after the Angelus prayer in Rome, expressed solidarity with Christians in the Middle East, noting that many are unable to fully observe their religious rites due to the ongoing conflict.
The incident has intensified global concerns about access to holy sites in Jerusalem and the balance between security measures and the protection of religious freedoms.
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