Italy’s prime minister condemned Israeli police for blocking Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Palm Sunday, calling the move an offense to religious freedom.

Authorities cited safety concerns in the Old City, noting restricted access, blocked emergency routes, and lack of shelter as reasons for the closure amid broader Holy Week restrictions tied to the regional crisis.

Pizzaballa and the Latin Patriarchate said they had complied with all restrictions from the start, including cancellations of public gatherings and broadcasting celebrations to the faithful.

Iran reportedly attacked a Dubai warehouse linked to Ukraine, underscoring the war’s widening proxy reach, though Kyiv denied the claim.

U.S. media and officials said the Pentagon and allies were preparing for potential weeks-long Iranian ground operations, including special forces missions, with no decision yet from the president.

A U.S. Marine Expeditionary Unit, about 2,500 Marines aboard the USS Tripoli, arrived in the Middle East as part of broader American force movements.

Iran loosened its Strait of Hormuz blockade by allowing 20 more Pakistani-flagged ships to pass, hinting at easing oil transport bottlenecks.

Yemeni Huthi attacks on Israel signaled expanded involvement in the conflict and potential impacts on global shipping and oil markets.

Portugal’s President and other leaders urged adherence to religious liberty and international law, condemning impediments to access at sacred sites and calling for protection of worship rights.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel described the incident as an unfortunate overreach, stressing that the ceremony was private with limited attendees and highlighting ongoing efforts to facilitate Holy Week activities.

Netanyahu stated there was no malicious intent in barring the Latin Patriarch, while foreign ministers and international outlets reported on the dispute and related coverage.

International reactions, including condemnations from several regional and Muslim-majority states, framed the restrictions on access to the Al-Aqsa complex as discriminatory and unlawful.