Russia Calls on Israel for Just Resolution of the 'Cows' Garden Issue: Zakharova

Maria Zakharova noted that the rights of all religious communities must be equally protected. Russia is concerned about the increasing provocations against representatives of the Christian community in Jerusalem. This was stated by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, during a weekly briefing.

“In particular, we have focused on the conflict situation surrounding the so-called 'Armenian Garden' located in the Old City; it has become the subject of legal tug-of-war between the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem and one of the Israeli organizations,” Zakharova presented the situation.

According to her, without waiting for the conclusion of the judicial process, the organization has begun construction work on a hotel complex in the disputed area, which has led to clashes between local Armenians and Jewish extremists.

“We urge the Israeli authorities to take steps for a just resolution of this sensitive issue within the framework of the law. We believe that the rights of all religious communities in the country should be equally protected,” Zakharova stated.

She emphasized that Russia is against any illegal actions aimed at disrupting the historically established ethnic balance in the Old City of Jerusalem, including encroachments against Christians who have lived there for centuries, as well as their properties and sanctuaries.