Israeli Police, Protestors Clash Amid Rising Tensions Over Gaza

Israeli police imposed significant restrictions on Christian worshippers attempting to attend Easter ceremonies at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, resulting in violent scuffles and reports of officers pushing, shoving, and threatening attendees, including drawing a handgun on a Christian scout. Despite the issuance of thousands of permits for West Bank Christians, only a small fraction were reportedly allowed entry, with busloads turned away at border crossings. Many local Christians and church leaders condemned the actions as discriminatory, especially in contrast to the greater access granted to Jewish worshippers in the city. Israeli authorities defended the restrictions on security grounds, but critics argue these measures reflect broader efforts to assert dominance and limit Palestinian Christian participation. The incidents mirror similar confrontations in previous years, intensifying concerns over religious freedom and the treatment of minority communities in Jerusalem.