Palestine condemns Israel’s seizure of land belonging to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate
Ramallah, June 20 (Hibya) - The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates condemned the seizure by Israeli authorities of land belonging to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in the Silwan area of occupied East Jerusalem.
In a statement, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said that during the operation carried out on June 15, the Patriarchate’s representative was deported, equipment was confiscated, trees were uprooted, and the land was enclosed with fences and gates.
The statement argued that the move constitutes a clear violation of the sanctity of church property and represents a direct attack on the religious and historical heritage of the Palestinian people as well as the universal religious significance of Jerusalem.
The ministry emphasized that the land, registered as property of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate and located adjacent to a historic monastery, is protected under international law.
The statement also expressed the view that the confiscation or seizure of private and religious property in occupied territories is contrary to international humanitarian law.
British News Agency