Occupied Jerusalem (Quds News Network)- Israeli authorities froze the bank accounts of the Orthodox Patriarchate in occupied Jerusalem and imposed heavy taxes on its properties. The move sparked strong condemnation and warnings of dangerous consequences.
The Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine said the step threatens the church’s ability to provide spiritual, social, and humanitarian services. It stressed that the action violates international law, signed agreements, and the historic status quo in the occupied Palestinian capital city.
The committee also revealed that Israeli settlers expanded near the lands of the Orthodox Church around St. Gerasimos Monastery near Jericho. It said this reflects a wider policy to change Jerusalem’s identity and erase its religious and cultural character.
“This is an unprecedented attack on the churches of the Holy Land,” the committee warned. “It is a systematic attempt to undermine the Christian presence in Palestine and empty it of its religious institutions.”
It called on global churches and Christian institutions to take urgent political, legal, and media action to stop the violations and protect the church’s freedom to serve its community.
The Orthodox Church spokesman told Ma’an News that the decision will paralyze the church’s role and mission. He said the church rejects and condemns the measure, which he described as a “flagrant breach” of the historic status quo in occupied Jerusalem and international law. He added that church leaders in Jerusalem remain in constant session to decide on a response.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the Israeli decision on Saturday. It said Israel aims to eliminate the Christian presence in Palestine as part of its open war on holy sites and religious institutions.
Jerusalem Governorate described the decision as a “new crime” and a “dangerous aggressive step.” It said the move directly violates freedom of worship and represents a clear attempt to Judaize the city and erase its Islamic and Christian identity.
Both the Foreign Ministry and the Governorate urged the international community, and Christian and Muslim leaders worldwide, to take urgent action to protect the Christian presence in occupied Jerusalem. They held Israel fully responsible for the consequences of its policies.
In recent years, Israel escalated pressure on churches by demanding retroactive tax payments. In 2018, authorities froze properties and bank accounts of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate worth over 30 million shekels (around $8.5 million).
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