Israel Lifts Restrictions at Jerusalem Holy Sites Following Ceasefire with Iran
Israel has lifted restrictions on public gatherings at holy sites in Jerusalem, allowing worshippers to return to these locations after a ceasefire was announced in the ongoing conflict with Iran. The restrictions, which had been in place for nearly six weeks, affected Christian, Jewish, and Muslim sites, limiting access during significant religious observances such as Lent, Passover, and Ramadan. The Al-Aqsa Mosque, which had been closed for much of Ramadan, reopened for dawn prayers, while the Western Wall saw worshippers return. The lifting of restrictions coincides with the upcoming Orthodox Christian Easter celebrations, allowing for traditional ceremonies to proceed. The restrictions had previously sparked criticism, particularly when Israeli police prevented Catholic leaders from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday, leading to international backlash. 
