1.   Although it would be embarrassing for the Muslim nations to block pilgrims going to Mecca, they would violate the embargo by allowing the planes to cross.

2.   But it would be embarrassing for the Muslim nations to block pilgrims going to Mecca.

3.   Israel has drawn criticism from Christian leaders, including the Vatican, for blocking pilgrims from reaching the biblical city.

4.   There was no explanation for why the guards tried to block the pilgrims.

5.   Palestinian officials accused Israel on Monday of blocking Christian pilgrims from reaching holy places in Bethlehem with a security cordon they said was wrecking Palestinian tourism.