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Holy Week Tensions Rise as Israel Blocks Cardinal from Entering Sacred Jerusalem Site

  Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, holds a prayer service to mark Palm Sunday, following the cancellation of the traditional Palm Sunday procession from the Mount of Olives, amid restrictions on gathering in large groups, in Jerusalem, March 29, 2026. Israeli police prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday, prompting widespread criticism from Christian leaders and governments worldwide. Authorities cited security concerns linked to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, noting that all holy sites in Jerusalem’s Old City had been temporarily closed due to the threat of missile strikes. The Latin Patriarchate condemned the move as an unprecedented disruption of centuries‑old tradition, marking the first time church leaders were unable to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass at the historic site. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later stated that the ...
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Wildfire Reaches Athens’ Outskirts, Prompting Evacuations

 

A fast-moving wildfire, driven by gale-force winds, has spread to the edge of Athens, Greece, torching trees, houses, and cars. The blaze has forced the evacuation of several hospitals and numerous towns and villages.

Key Points:

  • Firefighting Efforts: Over 670 firefighters, supported by volunteers, 183 fire engines, and 32 waterbombing planes and helicopters, are battling the fire.
  • Evacuations: At least 250 people have been evacuated, with some spending the night in shelters.
  • Weather Conditions: Strong winds and high temperatures are exacerbating the situation, with flames reaching heights of 25 meters (82 feet).
  • Government Response: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has returned from a holiday to oversee the response, recalling the devastating 2018 fire in Mati.

The situation remains critical as authorities continue to combat the blaze and protect residents.

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