Jerusalem Armenian Patriarchate Demands Response from Israel Regarding Violence Against Armenians in 'Cow’s Garden'

The Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem demands a response from the Israeli government regarding the police-led eviction that has taken place. Aghan Gokchyan, the head of the Patriarchate's office, detailed incidents of violence against Armenians in 'Cow’s Garden' through his Facebook page: "The eviction was led by an officer named Asaf Harel. When the group of officers was asked to present any authorization for the violent eviction of Armenian clergy and local Armenians, they failed to produce any permit or court order and continued to protect and support representatives of Xana Gardens in the destruction of the Armenian Patriarchate's property. During attempts to halt these illegal actions, several police officers repeatedly claimed they were present with an authorization, yet they never presented such documents and stated, 'We are here to protect the rights of Xana Gardens' workers.'

The Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem is one of the protectors of the Holy Land and oversees one of the four quarters of Jerusalem. We expect a complete and proper process, as supposedly granted to everyone in Jerusalem, and we demand answers from the Israeli police and the Israeli government regarding their involvement in today's events. It is evident that the provocations today are attempts to create a precedent against the Armenian Quarter and its legitimate lands. 'We must continue to stand firm in our positions and call on the attention of all Christians worldwide regarding the continuous violations against the peaceful Armenian Christian community,' he emphasized.

It should be noted that today, Israeli settlers unlawfully (with police consent) entered the Armenian Quarter's Cow’s Garden in the Old City of Jerusalem, attempting to unlawfully displace Armenians and change the existing status quo on the ground.