In the midst of an unprecedented war escalation in the Middle East, the Israel Police confirmed that Holy Week celebrations, including historical rituals such as the “Holy Fire”, will be held in a limited and symbolic way.
The decision, which generated criticism on social networks during Palm Sunday, has a specific reason: the real and constant threat of missile attacks from Iran.
As explained by the authorities, in recent weeks projectiles and remains of interceptions hit directly inside the Old City of Jerusalem, one of the most sensitive religious areas in the world.
The fact that many ignore: missiles fell near sacred sites Far from being
an arbitrary measure, the Israeli government made the decision after multiple episodes of direct risk: Fragments of
Iranian missiles fell meters away from places such as the Western Wall and the Esplanade of the Mosques.
There were impacts and debris inside the Old City itself.
The restrictions reached all religions: Jews, Muslims and Christians.
In that context, limiting mass gatherings was not a political decision, but rather a measure of survival.
Palm Sunday: global controversy, but context omitted
The controversy erupted when Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa was initially unable to enter the Holy Sepulchre
