Archimandrite Ioan Meiu, representative of the Romanian Patriarchate at the Holy Places, said the situation in Israel remains largely unchanged despite ongoing attacks and restrictions, warning that online reports often exaggerate the reality on the ground.
“The situation in the Holy Land is almost the same as when the war began. Airspace is closed to commercial flights. Only military aircraft, repatriation flights and special flights have access to Ben Gurion Airport,” he told the Basilica Media Centre.
He noted that rocket attacks are frequent, including in the Jerusalem area, but added that “cities are not destroyed, as is unfortunately being speculated online”.
Liturgical Life Unaffected
Archimandrite Meiu also referred to recent incidents in Jerusalem: “Just yesterday, fragments of rockets fell in the Old City, but no one was injured.”
Regarding access to holy sites, he explained that restrictions are temporary and have multiple causes: “The Church of the Holy Sepulchre remains closed due to the war, but also because we are in the period of Ramadan.”
He added that restrictions affect not only Christians but also Jewish and Muslim holy sites. Despite this, liturgical life continues both at the Holy Sepulchre and at Romanian establishments in Jerusalem and Jericho.
Holy Light to Reach Romania
Referring to reports about bringing the Holy Light to Romania, Archimandrite Meiu warned against misinformation.
“There has been no question so far that the Holy Light would not reach Romania.”
He said arrangements have already been initiated: “We have spoken with the Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Romanian Patriarchate, and we have received the necessary approvals.”
He added that no decision has yet been made regarding alternative transport methods, such as by sea or land.
Call for Prayer
“We ask the Romanian people to pray for the end of the war. It is very important to remain calm, to hope and to believe that this year as well the Holy Light will reach Romania, as it has for many years,” he said.
The Romanian Patriarchate’s representation at the Holy Places continues to provide material and spiritual support to Romanians still in Israel amid security tensions that began in late February.
Photo: Facebook / Părintele Ioan Meiu – Ierusalim
