The Holy Fire Ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre will take place this year on Holy Saturday without the presence of faithful, as Israeli authorities impose strict security measures in the Old City of Jerusalem due to the ongoing tensions in the region.
According to ertnews.gr reports, the Israeli police have introduced significant restrictions both on access for worshippers and on the number of clergy allowed inside the church. In particular, Orthodox clergy will be limited to no more than 15, while representatives of other Christian denominations participating in the ceremony will also be present.
At the same time, all Holy Week services in the Holy Land will be conducted exclusively with clergy, without the participation of the faithful, as part of broader protective measures.
Diplomatic Contacts and International Reactions
On the diplomatic front, Greece is in communication with the relevant authorities to ensure the participation of a Greek delegation in accordance with established protocol, with discussions focusing mainly on the number of representatives who will be permitted to attend.
Meanwhile, reactions have also emerged internationally. Germany’s Foreign Ministry has reportedly expressed concern that such restrictions could further heighten tensions, according to ertnews.gr.
Security Measures and Coordination with Churches
Regarding Catholic celebrations, the Israeli police stated: “Following a productive meeting between the Israel Police and Latin Catholic Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, a mutual framework has been established for upcoming Easter ceremonies. Due to the complex security reality of Operation ‘Roaring Lion,’ ceremonies including the ‘Holy Fire’ will be held in a symbolic, limited format.
This coordination ensures that freedom of worship is maintained alongside our shared, primary duty: the protection of human life. In the past few weeks, Iranian missiles and debris have impacted within the Old City. These life-saving restrictions are a direct response to a real and present danger to all worshippers.”
Following a productive meeting between the Israel Police and Latin Catholic Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, a mutual framework has been established for upcoming Easter ceremonies.
Due to the complex security reality of Operation “Roaring Lion,” ceremonies including the “Holy… pic.twitter.com/uWcE4fnQMO
— Israel Police (@israelpolice) March 30, 2026
For its part, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, together with the Custody of the Holy Land, confirmed in an official statement that arrangements for Holy Week and Easter have been coordinated with the authorities.
They assured that access for Church representatives has been secured so that services may be conducted properly and the ancient Paschal traditions at the Holy Sepulchre may be preserved.
