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European Leaders Condemn Restrictions on Jerusalem Church

(MENAFN) Numerous European officials expressed alarm and, in certain instances, outright disapproval after Israeli authorities blocked the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, from accessing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to conduct Palm Sunday Mass.

A declaration released by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that preventing Pizzaballa from entering the church "constitutes an offense not only to believers, but to every community that recognizes religious freedom." The remark highlighted broader concerns about respecting faith and spiritual liberties.

Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani likewise labeled the action as "unacceptable," noting that he had directed the Foreign Office "to summon the Israeli ambassador tomorrow to seek clarification regarding the decision." His response emphasized diplomatic steps aimed at understanding the circumstances behind the restriction.

French President Emmanuel Macron also criticized the incident, posting on the social media platform X, "I condemn this decision by the Israeli police, which adds to the worrying increase in violations of the status of Jerusalem’s Holy Sites." He further urged that a "free exercise of worship" in Jerusalem be ensured "for all religions."

Similarly, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez voiced his stance on X, declaring, "From the Government of Spain, we condemn this unjustified attack on religious freedom and demand that Israel respect the diversity of beliefs and international law. Because without tolerance, coexistence is impossible." His comments reinforced the importance of mutual respect among different faiths.

Portugal’s Foreign Ministry also reacted strongly, stating that the action taken by Israeli officials "deserves deep condemnation," while calling on them “to guarantee and uphold freedom of religion and worship."

Meanwhile, Polish President Karol Nawrocki took to X to "strongly" oppose the measure and expressed solidarity with Cardinal Pizzaballa, adding to the chorus of European criticism.

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