Israel has tightened security in and around the Old City of Jerusalem on Saturday (April 18) ahead of Orthodox Easter celebrations.
Police and border policemen secured the gates leading into the walled city, checking those who wished to enter the ancient compound.
Thousands of Christian worshippers are expected to participate in Orthodox Easter "Holy Fire" ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to mark the resurrection of Jesus.
The Holy Fire is an annual ceremony considered ... Read more

Israel has tightened security in and around the Old City of Jerusalem on Saturday (April 18) ahead of Orthodox Easter celebrations.
Police and border policemen secured the gates leading into the walled city, checking those who wished to enter the ancient compound.
Thousands of Christian worshippers are expected to participate in Orthodox Easter "Holy Fire" ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to mark the resurrection of Jesus.
The Holy Fire is an annual ceremony considered to be a miracle that is being held in the ancient church, believed to be built on the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection.
Traditionally, the Greek Orthodox patriarch enters the small tomb chamber of Jesus at the Holy Sepulchre Church to receive the Holy Fire that descends on a lamp of olive oil he is holding. The patriarch lights a numbers of candles with the Holy Fire and pass them on to worshippers.
An olive lamp lit by the "Holy Fire" is traditionally transferred to the West Bank town of Bethlehem, considered to be Jesus' birthplace. Close