White House has responded after Cardinal Pizzaballa blocked from church of Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the White House has reacted after Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the head of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land, was reportedly prevented by police from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre during Palm Sunday observances.
Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, said the United States had raised concerns with Israel over the closure of sacred religious sites in Jerusalem’s Old City.
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The incident reportedly prevented Cardinal Pizzaballa from presiding over Palm Sunday Mass, as authorities closed several holy locations in the Old City due to security concerns during the Holy Week period.
“We have expressed our concerns to Israel regarding the closure of these holy sites,” Leavitt said. “We want worshippers to be able to access these sacred locations. Safety remains a top priority, but we understand Israel is taking steps to reopen the sites during Holy Week, and we appreciate that effort.”
The White House briefing also addressed comments made by Pope Leo, who earlier on Sunday suggested that God disregards prayers from leaders who engage in warfare and have “hands full of blood.” The remarks were interpreted by some observers as a criticism of Donald Trump in relation to tensions surrounding the conflict in Iran.
Responding to the remarks, Leavitt said prayer has historically been a part of American leadership and military culture.
“Our nation was founded nearly 250 years ago on Judeo-Christian principles, and we have seen presidents, leaders from the Department of War, and our troops turn to prayer during some of the most difficult moments in our nation’s history,” she said.
She added that there was nothing inappropriate about American leaders encouraging citizens to pray for members of the armed forces and those serving the country abroad.
The development comes amid heightened security concerns in Jerusalem during Holy Week, when thousands of Christian pilgrims usually visit the Old City’s sacred sites.
