Heightened security measures are in place in Jerusalem for Passover celebrations

The Israeli government under the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu has activated a special security plan in Jerusalem for the Passover celebrations. These measures were taken in conditions of high geopolitical instability and are aimed at preventing risks for worshippers and clergy in the Old City. This is reported by the publication vimaorthodoxias.gr.

According to the developed plan, access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre will be carried out according to strictly limited criteria. It is assumed that only accredited clerics and a limited number of pilgrims will be able to get inside through a special control system. Israeli security forces will be fully deployed at key points, creating controlled access zones. Officials from the Prime Minister’s office emphasize that these restrictions are temporary and dictated solely by security concerns.

The situation has prompted an active diplomatic response from Greece. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs is in constant contact with the Israeli authorities, demanding guarantees for freedom of religion and the unhindered conduct of holy rituals. According to Greek diplomats, Easter celebrations in Jerusalem can be held in closed mode only in case of extreme threat to human life.

The Jerusalem Patriarchate maintains a standby mode as it continues preparations for Holy Week. Church circles note that the ceremony of the Descent of the Blessed Fire is a key event and will take place in any case, even if restrictions similar to those that were in place during the pandemic are imposed. The plan to transport the Holy Flame to Greece on a government flight remains in place for the time being, but final decisions will be made based on the operational situation.

The international community is also closely monitoring developments. According to NBC News, the Israeli government has already made partial concessions following protests and international pressure. However, the final format for the participation of worshippers in the main Passover ceremonies will be determined in the coming days, depending on the current security situation.