JERUSALEM, April 20, 2014 (WAFA) – Israeli police on Saturday intercepted a procession in Jerusalem celebrating the Easter, which was attended by United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Robert Serry, together with dignitaries of the diplomatic corps, said a statement by Serry.

 The procession was stopped on the fourth security checkpoint prior to the entry on the church grounds.

Despite earlier assurances to the Palestinian Christian community in Jerusalem of unhindered access to the Holy Sepulcher Church on the occasion of Easter celebrations, the Israeli police refused to allow such entry claiming they had orders to that effect. A precarious standoff ensued ending in an angry crowd pushing their way through, said the statement.

 The Special Coordinator was dismayed that a peaceful procession on the occasion of Easter in the Old city was disrupted by unacceptable behavior from the Israeli security authorities.

'Once again I call on all parties to respect the right of religious freedom, granting access to holy sites for worshippers of all faiths and refraining from provocations not least during the religious holidays,' the Special Coordinator concluded. 

M.N./T.R.