Jerusalem Armenian Patriarchate Faces Greatest Threat, Warning

The head of the Jerusalem Armenian Patriarchate, Aghan Gogchyan, announced that the Patriarchate is facing the greatest existential threat in its 16-century history. This existential-territorial danger extends fully to all Christian communities in Jerusalem.

Gogchyan wrote on his Facebook page that the Armenian Patriarchate had recently canceled a contract that was covered with false representation, undue influence, and illegal benefits. He stated, "Instead of providing a legal response to the annulment, the developers are trying to carry out construction in the 'Cows' Garden' premises. They have completely ignored the Patriarchate's legal position on this matter, opting instead for a provocative, aggressive strategy, including the destruction of property by armed provocateurs."

According to him, in recent days, there has been massive demolition and removal of asphalt in the Armenian neighborhood of Jerusalem without permission from the city council, the developer, or the police. Despite this situation, the police have preferred to demand all members of the Armenian community to leave the area in recent days.

"We urge the entire Christian community of Jerusalem to stand alongside the Armenian Patriarchate during these unprecedented times, as this is yet another clear step taken to jeopardize the presence of Christians in Jerusalem and the Holy Land," wrote the head of the Jerusalem Armenian Patriarchate.