Jerusalem's Church of Holy Sepulchre shuts as Israel ups anti-Coronavirus measures

Jerusalem's Church of Holy Sepulchre, believed by Christians to house Christ's tomb, was shut Wednesday, as Israel tightened movement restrictions and Palestinians anunced ir first vel coronavirus death.

church, located in Jerusalem's Old City, was closed shortly after 5:00 p.m. (1500 GMT), as Israel applied a series of new restrictions meant to curb spre of virus, including shutting down places of worship.

"We have been informed of closure. Our understanding is that it is for one week. We hope ( church) will reopen as soon as possible," said Wie Abunassar, a spokesperson for local clergy.

new restrictions in Israel, anunced in a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, prohibited leaving one's home except to buy essentials, such as food and medicine, or to seek medical treatment.

"Individuals d 60 and over, especially elderly and at-risk groups, must remain at home and avoid risking mselves by going out," statement said.

"Violating prohibitions will constitute a criminal offense" it ded, ting that police were tasked with enforcing orders, which will be in place for seven days.

church's closure, a short time before Easter celebrations, comes days after Muslim authorities closed nearby Al-Aqsa mosque compound, Islam's third holiest site.

number of Israelis who have tested positive for COVID-19 disease reached 2,369 on Wednesday evening. Five people have died in recent days after contracting virus.

Palestinian authorities in occupied West Bank reported territory's first death from virus on Wednesday, with 60 cases recorded so far.

Palestinian Authority on Sunday banned all n-essential movements for 14 days to curb spre of virus. (AFP) CPS