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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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Israeli Prime Minister's Office Refutes Claims of Hamas Agreement on Gaza Ceasefire

 

In a recent development, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied reports that Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal mediated by Qatar. Contrary to earlier claims by an Israeli official, the Prime Minister's office stated that Hamas has not yet responded to the deal.

The proposal, which aims to halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza, was reportedly set to be formally announced on Thursday, with the first phase of the agreement commencing on Sunday. However, the Prime Minister's office clarified that no official communication has been received from Hamas regarding their acceptance of the terms.

This denial comes amidst ongoing negotiations and efforts by international mediators to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The situation remains fluid, with both sides yet to reach a final agreement.


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