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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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Final Ceasefire Draft Presented to Israel and Hamas After Breakthrough in Doha

 


Mediators have presented Israel and Hamas with a final draft of a ceasefire deal aimed at ending the war in Gaza, following a breakthrough in negotiations held in Doha. The draft, which includes provisions for the release of hostages and a cessation of hostilities, was handed over after midnight talks involving Israel's spy chiefs, President-elect Trump's Middle East envoy, and Qatar’s prime minister.

The negotiations, which have been ongoing for over a year with the involvement of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, reached a pivotal moment early Monday. U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the urgent need for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in a recent phone call.

While both sides have yet to confirm the final draft, officials have described the progress as promising. The next 24 hours are seen as crucial to sealing the deal before President Biden leaves office.

The war in Gaza, which began in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis. The proposed ceasefire aims to address these issues and pave the way for a lasting peace.





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