Germany Urges Israel Over Holy Sites Access

Germany has communicated to Israel that restricting access to Jerusalem's holy sites could worsen tensions. The Israeli government's initial decision to bar access, including Jerusalem's Catholic cardinal on Palm Sunday, led to international backlash and a reversal by Prime Minister Netanyahu for Holy Week.

Germany has issued a stern warning to Israel about the implications of restricting access to Jerusalem's holy sites. A spokesperson from Germany's foreign ministry stressed that such actions might exacerbate existing tensions.

This statement came after Israel initially blocked Jerusalem's Catholic cardinal from marking Palm Sunday at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The move drew widespread international condemnation.

Following the backlash, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reversed the ban, allowing access for the remainder of Holy Week. This development marks a significant diplomatic intervention aiming to ease the strained situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)