Uncertainty Over Holy Light Transfer from Jerusalem to Greece Amid War Greek City Times

Intense concern has emerged in recent days, amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, over what will happen during Easter and the transfer of the Holy Light from Jerusalem to Greece.

The Old City of Jerusalem, which is usually full of life, now resembles a ghost town. Entry to the city is restricted, shops are closed, and monasteries and museums in the area have suspended operations, leaving daily life effectively at a standstill.

Restrictions ahead of the holidays

Jewish Passover begins on April 1 and runs until April 9, while Greek Orthodox Easter will be celebrated on April 12.

During this period, the Old City is typically filled with worshippers gathering for the Holy Light ceremony, which is then transported to Greece. This year, however, Easter is expected to be very different, as the area remains under curfew due to the ongoing war.

Coordination for the transfer of the Holy Light

According to reports, Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Greek embassy, and Israeli authorities are in constant communication to coordinate the transfer.

Although it is still early, officials insist that “the Holy Light will reach Greece one way or another,” whether by special flight or alternative arrangements.

Since the outbreak of the war, Israeli airspace has opened and closed intermittently. Authorities believe there will be a window of opportunity to allow the Holy Light to be transported to Greece.

Within church circles, there are even discussions about the possibility of an informal truce during Easter to facilitate the ceremony and the transfer of the Holy Light—though such a scenario appears highly unlikely.