Fragments of missiles were discovered in the Old City of Jerusalem after a rocket attack launched from Iran, Israeli authorities said on March 16.

According to police, several rockets were intercepted by Israel’s air defense system over the city. Large pieces of debris were later found in multiple areas of the Old City, including near the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, on the Temple Mount, close to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and in the Jewish Quarter. Additional fragments were reported in central Jerusalem and in East Jerusalem.

One piece of debris damaged the roof of a building belonging to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, located just a few meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, according to reports cited by TASS. Preliminary information indicates that no one was injured and the major religious shrines were not seriously damaged.

For security reasons, authorities temporarily closed several religious sites in the Old City to visitors. Access has been restricted to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Western Wall. Police said the measures were introduced so that people remain close to shelters in case of further attacks.

A representative of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate said the Church of the Holy Sepulchre has remained closed to pilgrims since early March, with Great Lent services being held in other churches. Church officials emphasized that prayers continue for a swift end to the conflict and for the safe return of pilgrims to the Holy Land.

Amid the escalating situation, Israeli authorities have also restricted mass gatherings across Israel. Schools, some businesses, and religious institutions have been temporarily closed, while the Old City of Jerusalem remains largely accessible only to local residents and clergy.