Palestinian Christians are facing unprecedented restrictions in accessing Jerusalem’s Old City for Easter celebrations, with only a few leaders from the West Bank being granted permits while their congregations are left out. This has left Palestinian Christians desperate to visit their places of worship in the land where Christianity was born.
Access to East Jerusalem is typically granted to Christians, but Palestinian Muslims face routine restrictions. The owner of a store selling religious souvenirs in Jerusalem expressed concerns about lack of sales due to the ongoing war and absence of tourists. Israeli settlers have made the Old City an almost no-go zone, with reports of attacks on churches and cemeteries.
Palestinian Christians from the West Bank have been deprived of walking the Via Dolorosa this year due to the restrictions. Last year, the Greek Orthodox Church criticized Israel’s heavy-handed restrictions on freedom of worship during Easter celebrations. Christian leaders believe that these restrictions are part of an ongoing Israeli policy to push Palestinians out of their homeland.
The situation has raised concerns among the international community about the violation of religious freedom and the right to worship. It is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Palestinians in practicing their faith in the holy city. As Easter approaches, Palestinian Christians continue to hope for a resolution to the restrictions that have hindered their ability to celebrate this important religious holiday.
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