Canada's PM Carney condemns Israel over Palm Sunday access block
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has publicly criticized Israeli police for preventing Christian leaders, including the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, from conducting Palm Sunday observances at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. In a statement on X, Carney expressed disappointment, stating the action contravenes long-standing arrangements for access to holy sites. He emphasized that people of all faiths in Jerusalem must be able to worship freely and safely. The incident has raised concerns about respect for religious traditions in the city. Carney noted a positive development, mentioning that Israeli President Isaac Herzog has since contacted the Latin Patriarch, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, to address the issue. Palm Sunday marks the start of Holy Week for Christians, traditionally observed with prayers at key Jerusalem locations. This international diplomatic incident underscores ongoing tensions around religious freedom in contested holy sites. For Nigerian audiences, the story highlights a global concern for religious access that resonates with Nigeria's own diverse faith landscape. No direct local impact, but it reflects universal values of worship freedom.