Spain summons Israeli envoy over church restrictions

MADRID, Spain (MNTV) — The Spanish government has summoned Israel’s top envoy in Madrid in protest after Israeli authorities blocked the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem from accessing one of Christianity’s holiest sites, sparking international outrage over restrictions on religious freedom.

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said the move was unacceptable after Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa was prevented from leading Palm Sunday prayers at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. 

“This cannot happen again. Catholic worship must be able to be celebrated normally,” Albares said.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also condemned the incident, describing it as a direct attack on religious freedom, as criticism mounted over Israel’s increasing restrictions on access to religious sites.

Israeli authorities claimed the measure was based on security concerns and later indicated the cardinal would be allowed to return. 

However, the move comes amid broader restrictions imposed since the escalation of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, with Israeli officials banning large public gatherings, including at churches, and mosques.

The diplomatic dispute unfolds against already strained relations between Spain and Israel. Tel Aviv has been represented in Madrid only by a charge d’affaires since 2024, after withdrawing its ambassador in response to Spain’s recognition of a Palestinian state.

Observers say the recent incident highlights Israel’s tightening control over religious and public life in occupied Jerusalem. 

They warn that the ongoing U.S.-backed military escalation is being used to justify broad restrictions on basic freedoms across the region.