Jerusalem's Holy Sites Under Lockdown Amid War

0:00Jerusalem's holy sites are locked down tight as the war with Iran hits its fifth week, right before Passover and Easter. The old city, usually buzzing with pilgrims and families, sits eerily empty, with stores shuttered and plazas deserted. Normally, spring brings crowds of tourists for these big Jewish and Christian holidays, but metal barriers block nearly every shop and footsteps, barely echo through the stone alleys. This time around, Jerusalem isn't dodging the action, like in past conflicts. Since Israel and the US struck Iran on February 28th, missiles have rained down repeatedly, even near sacred spots. An intercepted Iranian missile sent Shrapnel onto the Greek Orthodox patriarchate roof, steps from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, now closed along. With the western wall under rules capping gatherings at 50 people, debris even hit roads to the wall. Rabbi Schmoole Rebenowitz looks out over the empty western wall plaza and says his heart aches at the site. The huge Passover priestly blessing, which packs in tens of thousands, shrinks to just 50 worshippers this year, leaving families weary in the city.

1:06In a somber hush, local news, powered by AI. This is Vancouver News Today.