Israel blocked then allowed a Palm Sunday church service in Jerusalem

Israeli authorities initially prevented the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday mass. This decision blocked Catholic leaders from holding the service at one of Christianity's holiest sites.

After the move drew widespread criticism, Israel reversed its decision and allowed the service to proceed. The United States, the European Union, and leaders from countries including France, Hungary, and Greece had all raised concerns or condemned the initial blockade.