Church of the Holy Sepulchre closes to visitors and public services amid war

Another fallout from the ongoing airstrike exchanges is access to religious sites.

The world-renowned Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem — considered the holiest site in Christianity and an important pilgrimage destination since the 4th century — has been closed to visitors and for public services.

With the Easter season fast approaching, many are concerned that traditional ceremonies could be canceled this year — an unprecedented step even in times of global crisis.

The Russian Orthodox Church spoke out about the restrictions, expressing hope that the church closure will not disrupt the sacred transfer of the Holy Fire from Greece, which marks the beginning of Easter celebrations.