Netanyahu claims no ill will was involved in barring Latin Patriarch's entry to the Holy Sepulchre

On March 19, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the media during a press conference held in Jerusalem, as captured by photographer Ronen Zvulun.

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The Israeli prime minister's office disclosed that the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem was barred from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to lead Palm Sunday mass due to concerns about his well-being.

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According to a statement released by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on X, the decision to prevent Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from holding mass was made with his safety in mind, stating "Today, out of special concern for his safety, Jerusalem police prevented the Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from holding mass this morning at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre."

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The office of Prime Minister Netanyahu further clarified that the intention behind this decision was not malicious, but rather a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the patriarch and his entourage, adding "Again, there was no malicious intent whatsoever, only concern for his safety and that of his party."

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In consideration of the significance of Holy Week for Christians worldwide, Israel's security forces are devising a plan to facilitate worship at the sacred site in the upcoming days, as stated by Netanyahu's office, which said "Given the holiness of the week leading up to Easter for the world’s Christians, Israel’s security arms are putting together a plan to enable church leaders to worship at the holy site in the coming days."