Palestinian Christians in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem observed a somber Easter this year, facing harsh conditions due to ongoing conflict and restrictions. In Gaza, where the Israeli military has blocked food and aid for nearly 50 days, Easter services were held at the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza City. The atmosphere was filled with sorrow as families chose to limit their celebrations, fearing further bombings from Israeli warplanes, which had already claimed numerous lives that day.
Since the start of the recent conflict, over 51,000 Palestinians have died, a staggering toll that underscores the devastation many are experiencing. The Saint Porphyrius church compound was previously bombed in October 2023, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 displaced Palestinians who had sought refuge there. Israel justified the attack by claiming it was targeting terrorists.
Easter celebrations in the occupied West Bank were also heavily impacted by Israeli restrictions. Many Christians were unable to access holy sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in East Jerusalem. Clashes erupted between Israeli police and worshippers, including a priest, as they attempted to reach the church. The Old City of Jerusalem resembled a military zone, with more soldiers and police present than worshippers, according to Fathi Nimer, a policy fellow at the Al-Shabaka think tank.
Only about 6,000 Palestinians from the West Bank were granted permits to attend Easter services this year, and even the Vatican’s representative in Palestine was denied access. Nimer noted that the increasing restrictions have led to a decline in Palestinian worshippers, as Israel asserts its claim over Jerusalem and the surrounding areas.
Mitri Raheb, a Palestinian pastor, shared his frustration about the situation, stating that he couldn’t obtain a permit to attend Holy Week services, which are crucial for Christians. He highlighted the rising hostility towards Palestinian Christians, especially clergy, with reports of settler attacks becoming more frequent.
Pope Francis addressed the situation during an Easter Mass at the Vatican, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and urging Hamas to release captives. His words echoed the sentiment of many who are concerned about the ongoing violence and its impact on the region’s Christian community.
The plight of Palestinian Christians during this Easter season reflects a broader struggle for cultural and religious identity amid ongoing conflict. With restrictions tightening and violence escalating, many worry about the future of their communities and their ability to practice their faith freely.