The European Union has raised concerns over restrictions imposed at a major Christian holy site in Jerusalem, describing the incident as a violation of religious freedom.

Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said Israeli police prevented Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre during Palm Sunday observances.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Kallas said the move undermines long-standing protections governing access to religious sites and infringes on fundamental rights.

“Freedom of worship in Jerusalem must be fully guaranteed, without exception, for all faiths,” she stated, emphasizing the need to uphold religious liberties in the city.

Kallas also highlighted the importance of preserving Jerusalem’s unique multi-religious character, warning that actions restricting access to holy places risk increasing tensions and undermining coexistence.

The incident has drawn attention to broader concerns about access to religious sites in Jerusalem, a city of deep significance to multiple faiths, where maintaining the status quo has long been seen as essential to stability. (ILKHA)