Georgian Patriarch placed in medically induced coma and put on ventilation

Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia. Photo: Patriarchate website

On March 17, 2026, Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia was hospitalized in Tbilisi with massive gastric bleeding. He was subsequently placed in a medically induced coma and connected to a mechanical ventilator, Orthodoxia News Agency reports.

The Patriarch was taken to the Caucasus Medical Center during the night. Doctors are currently holding a medical consultation to assess his condition and determine further treatment.

“A consultation is underway. They will come out and provide information,” said Metropolitan Dimitri of Batumi and Lazeti. Further details are expected once the meeting concludes.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze visited the hospital and stated that the authorities are doing everything possible for the Patriarch’s recovery. “I would like to wish the Patriarch good health,” he said, emphasizing that the government will provide all necessary support.

The Church also clarified that, at this stage, there are no plans to involve foreign specialists or transfer the Patriarch abroad for treatment. Since the morning, representatives of the authorities and clergy – including the Patriarchal locum tenens – have been present at the medical center, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Georgian Orthodox Church marked the 48th anniversary of the Patriarch’s enthronement.

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