Christian Leaders in Jerusalem Condemn Unlawful Actions Threatening Armenian Quarter

OCP News Service – 20/11/2023

Jerusalem-Holy Land: In a joint statement issued on 18 November 2023, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem expressed deep concern over recent events unfolding within the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem. The Christian community in the Holy Land is troubled by the cancellation of a contested development contract, which has led to alarming actions by alleged developers, raising fears for the Armenian presence in the historic quarter.

Rather than pursuing legal avenues to address the canceled contract, the developers in question have resorted to hiring armed provocateurs, obstructing parking entrances, and initiating demolition work. The Christian leaders are apprehensive that such actions not only jeopardize the Armenian community’s standing in Jerusalem but also set a dangerous precedent for similar incidents in the future.

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches emphasized that the illegal actions taken against the Armenian Patriarchate and community are contrary to the principles of social order upheld by the peaceful and law-abiding Armenian community, an integral part of the Christian family in the Holy Land.

The alleged developers’ provocations, including the use of incendiary tactics, are perceived as a direct threat to the Armenian presence in the area, potentially weakening and endangering the broader Christian community in the Holy Land.

Expressing solidarity with the Armenian Patriarchate and community, the Christian leaders support their decision to pursue proper legal procedures to address the cancellation of the transaction. The statement urgently appeals to relevant governmental and non-governmental bodies to intervene and restore the peace and harmony that once characterized the Armenian Quarter.

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem emphasized the importance of handling such matters through legal negotiations and procedures to prevent further escalations and violence. Their united call seeks to safeguard the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Armenian Quarter and ensure the continued coexistence of diverse communities in this sacred part of Jerusalem.