After yesterday's muddled affair, an agreement was reached for Easter celebrations at the Holy Sepulchre: While the basilica remains closed, Israeli police will guarantee access to the building for Church representatives to livestream the liturgies. This matter brings to the fore the issue of the status quo of the Holy Places. Politics cannot override rules and traditions in Jerusalem even in times of war.
Israeli police in Jerusalem carried out a wanton act of intimidation against the cardinal and the custos of the Holy Land, who were prevented from privately entering the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass this morning. The Patriarchate protested the lack of respect for “the sensibilities of billions of people around the world who, during this week, look to Jerusalem.” Prayers will be held this afternoon at the Dominus Flevit.
The extremists set up a tent and raised an Israeli flag. The attacks aimed at seizing land carry religious, political, legal, and symbolic implications. For the local parish priest, Father Bashar, despite difficult circumstances, the Christian community wants to celebrate Easter "with deep faith”. The patriarchs and heads of the Churches of Jerusalem issued a message of peace.
The alarm has been raised by the president of the National Farmers’ Union. Harvests in the coming Yala and Maha seasons are at risk, with the threat of a severe food shortage. Around 130,000 tonnes of fertiliser are needed for rice, but stocks stand at just 60,000 tonnes. For industry operators, the problem reflects a deeper structural vulnerability.
Expert wars of a "depressing and grim" situation in the country. Hezbollah’s accusations of treason, along with its open challenge to the government, threaten to further inflame the domestic situation. The arrival of US Marines in the region fuels fears of escalation. Meanwhile, Israel continues to advance across the border in the south.
Bishop Berardi describes the climate of tensions and concern among people, surprised by Iran’s response to the Israeli-American attack. From travel, celebrations, and migrant workers, a climate of uncertainty prevails, combined with the fear that water will be affected. Below the surface, relations between Shias and Sunnis remain tense, while relations between Christians and Muslims are strong. The Abraham Accords are in crisis.
