Christian Palestinians observe a scaled-down Easter

Palestinian Christians in occupied East Jerusalem are observing low-scale Easter celebrations.

According to Al Jazeera, the Church of Holy Sepulchre in occupied East Jerusalem was relatively empty, contrary to previous years, when the courtyard would be packed.

The Christian community is expressing solidarity with the Palestinians in war-torn Gaza, with low attendance for Easter rituals.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis has renewed his calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

"I appeal once again that access to humanitarian aid be ensured to Gaza, and call once more for the prompt release of the hostages seized on last October 7 and for an immediate ceasefire in the Strip," he said to a packed St Peter’s Square in the Vatican City.

Christian worshippers pray at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City of Jerusalem, during the Easter Sunday mass on 31 March (AFP) — Christian worshippers pray at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City of Jerusalem, during Easter Sunday mass on 31 March (AFP)