Israel Reopens Holy Sepulchre After International Outcry – Decision on Holy Fire on Wednesday

Israel has decided to allow Christian leaders to hold services at the Holy Sepulchre again, after international reactions caused by the initial obstruction. The decision was taken in response to criticism of the prevention of the Latin Patriarch's participation in Palm Sunday. Israeli authorities justified the restrictions as temporary, aimed at protecting religious leaders from recent Iranian missile attacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu stressed that the security measures were necessary, as debris from missiles fell near the Church. The decision to lift the restrictions came after strong reactions from international leaders, such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and French President Emmanuel Macron, as well as from the Vatican. The obstruction of the Palm Sunday service was described as “an insult to the faithful” and “a violation of the status of the holy sites.” The Latin Patriarchate denounced the incident as a “serious precedent,” while the German embassy and the European Parliament stressed the importance of religious freedom. Israeli security forces have pledged to ensure the possibility of pilgrimage for religious leaders during Holy Week. The decision on the Holy Fire is expected to be made on Wednesday, with the Israeli government examining the security conditions and the potential impact of the ceremony.