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Netanyahu Grants Cardinal Access After Controversial Police Blockade

3/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered police to grant Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
The order follows police blocking Cardinal Pizzaballa and Friar Francesco Ielpo from entering for a private Palm Sunday Mass, citing safety concerns.
Italy's prime minister called it an insult to freedom of worship.
Netanyahu said there was no malicious intent.

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Story summary

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered police to grant Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa full and immediate access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
The order follows police blocking Cardinal Pizzaballa and Friar Francesco Ielpo from entering for a private Palm Sunday Mass, citing safety concerns.
Italy's prime minister called it an insult to freedom of worship.
Netanyahu said there was no malicious intent.