Rome, 29 March (LaPresse) – Israeli police have stated that the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the Custos of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Ielpo, were prevented from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem whilst on their way to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass, for security reasons. "Since the start of Operation “Roar of the Lion”, all holy sites in the Old City of Jerusalem have been closed to worshippers to ensure public safety. The Patriarch’s request was examined yesterday and it was made clear that it would not be granted for the reasons outlined above. Freedom of worship will continue to be guaranteed, subject to the necessary restrictions,” the police stated in a note, reported by the Israeli media outlet Ynet.