Sun Apr 20 16:39:41 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Killings Cast Shadow on Easter for Palestinians; Israel Restricts Access to Holy Sites

**Jerusalem/Gaza City –** Easter Sunday was marked by somber celebrations for Palestinian Christians across the occupied territories, overshadowed by the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza and severe restrictions on access to holy sites. The conflict, which has claimed over 51,000 Palestinian lives since its onset, prevented many from reaching their homes and places of worship.

In Gaza, where an Israeli blockade has halted food and aid for nearly 50 days, Easter services were held under the shadow of ongoing violence. Families cancelled traditional gatherings fearing further airstrikes, following a deadly Sunday bombing campaign by Israeli warplanes. The Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius, itself previously targeted in October 2023, provided a grim backdrop to the celebrations.

Israeli authorities severely curtailed access to holy sites in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. Thousands of Palestinian Christians were blocked from attending services at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, with Israeli police clashing with worshippers and even a priest. Fathi Nimer of the Al-Shabaka think tank described the Old City of Jerusalem as a “military outpost,” with numerous checkpoints and a heavy security presence exceeding the number of worshippers. Only about 6,000 Palestinians from the West Bank received permits to attend Easter services, while even the Vatican’s representative was denied entry.

Palestinian leaders and religious figures, such as Pastor Mitri Raheb, condemned the restrictions as the toughest in recent years, hindering the ability of Palestinian Christians to participate in their faith’s most important events. They also highlighted a rise in anti-Palestinian Christian sentiment and violence.

Pope Francis renewed calls for a ceasefire in Gaza during his Easter Mass, while Pope Tawadros II, head of Egypt’s Coptic Orthodox Church, strongly condemned the Israeli actions in Gaza, describing the situation as “horrific injustice.” The ongoing restrictions are seen by many as part of a broader effort to restrict Palestinian cultural and religious identity.

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