Thousands of Christian faithful gathered at Jerusalem's sacred Mount of Olives for Palm Sunday celebrations, marking the beginning of Holy Week amidst intensifying conflict in the region. Despite the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, the annual procession witnessed a similar turnout to previous years.

Pilgrims waved branches and fronds in the air, a symbolic gesture reminiscent of Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem as described in the Bible. The Mount of Olives, also known as the place where Jesus ascended to heaven, held great significance for the attendees.

Earlier in the day, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the site of Jesus's crucifixion, conducted a service as part of the Palm Sunday observances. This important religious occasion ushers in Holy Week, during which Christians commemorate Jesus' crucifixion on Good Friday and his resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Despite the ongoing violence in the region, which has caused a significant downturn in tourism for Israel, the Palm Sunday procession drew a considerable number of participants. The conflict, which began in October, has resulted in the deaths of over 32,000 Palestinians, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza.

One of the pilgrims held a placard that read, "Save us lord. The Church of Saint Porphyrius and Holy Family Church, Gaza." This plea likely refers to the Israeli strike on St. Porphyrios, a Greek Orthodox church in Gaza, during which 18 people seeking refuge were reportedly killed.

The Palm Sunday celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and devotion of the Christian faithful in the face of adversity. Despite the ongoing conflict, many continue to gather and honor their religious traditions, keeping their faith alive in the midst of turmoil.

As Holy Week progresses, Christians around the globe will engage in various solemn observances to remember the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. These spiritual practices offer solace and hope, reinforcing the message of resilience and redemption that lies at the heart of the Christian faith.