Israeli police have blocked the head of the Catholic church in Jerusalem from entering Christianity's holiest site to celebrate Palm Sunday. The Latin Patriarch, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the Reverend Francesco Ielpo were stopped outside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre - where Jesus Christ was allegedly crucified, and where they planned to hold a mass to mark the beginning of Holy Week, according to church authorities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that worshippers of 'all faiths' were advised not to visit the Old City due to safety concerns following recent Iranian attacks. This move has received sharp criticism from church officials and global leaders, including the US ambassador to Israel, who described it as an 'unfortunate overreach.' Cardinal Pizzaballa’s office indicated that it was unprecedented for a Latin Patriarch to be denied access during this holy occasion. In response, Netanyahu stated that police acted out of special safety concerns and announced plans to allow church leaders to worship at the site soon. The traditional Palm Sunday procession was already canceled due to restrictions on public gatherings. The patriarchate called the decision disrespectful and alarming, affecting billions who look to Jerusalem for spiritual guidance. Global leaders have echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for freedom of worship in Jerusalem.