Jerusalem: Several European leaders voiced concerns and in some cases condemnation after Israeli police prevented the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass.

According to Anadolu Agency, a statement issued by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said preventing Pizzaballa from entering the church “constitutes an offense not only to believers, but to every community that recognizes religious freedom.”

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also described the move as “unacceptable” and said he had instructed the Foreign Office “to summon the Israeli ambassador tomorrow to seek clarification regarding the decision.” French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his disapproval of the decision by the Israeli police, highlighting the growing concern over violations at Jerusalem’s Holy Sites. He called for the guarantee of “free exercise of worship” in Jerusalem for all religions.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez took to the social media platform X to condemn the incident as an “unjustified attack on religious freedom,” urging Israel to respect diverse beliefs and international law. Similarly, the Portuguese Foreign Ministry echoed deep condemnation and urged Israeli authorities to ensure freedom of religion and worship is upheld.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki also voiced strong opposition to the actions of the Israeli police, emphasizing the move as a sign of disrespect for Christian tradition and culture. Malta’s Foreign Minister Ian Borg expressed deep concern, stating that access to Christianity’s holiest site, especially during Holy Week, must be respected. He urged Israeli authorities to reconsider and facilitate worship.

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem stated that Pizzaballa, along with the custos of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Ielpo, was stopped while heading privately to the church and was compelled to turn back. The incident marks the first time in centuries that church leaders were prevented from celebrating Palm Sunday at the Holy Sepulchre, a site of immense significance for Christians.

Additionally, Israeli authorities continue to restrict access for Muslims to Friday prayers at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque, maintaining a closure that has been in place since late February due to emergency measures related to the conflict with Iran.