Israel imposes strict restrictions on the Holy Fire ceremony in Jerusalem

This year the ceremony of the descent of the Holy Fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre will be held without the presence of pilgrims and believers. The Israeli authorities have imposed strict security measures in the Old City of Jerusalem in connection with the ongoing tensions in the region, which will significantly change the traditional order of one of the main Christian celebrations.

According to Orthodox Times, Israeli police have set limits on the number of participants: Orthodox clergy will be represented by no more than 15 people, and access for the general public will be completely closed. Similar restrictions apply to all Holy Week services, which will be held exclusively with the participation of clergy. The measures are part of an overall security strategy in the context of Operation Roaring Lion.

According to an official statement from the Israel Police, the restrictions are dictated by the real threat to the lives of citizens caused by recent incidents, including the fall of Iranian missile debris into the Old City. Law enforcement officials emphasized that after a constructive meeting with the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, a format was worked out to hold the ceremonies on a “symbolic, limited scale” that would preserve religious freedom while respecting the priority of protecting human life.

The international community expressed concern about the measures taken. In particular, the German Foreign Ministry noted that such restrictions could increase tensions. At the same time, the Greek side is engaged in diplomatic negotiations to ensure the participation of its official delegation in the ceremony. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custodia of the Holy Land confirmed coordination with the authorities, assuring that access for Church representatives would be ensured in order to maintain the ancient Easter traditions.