Palestinian MFA condemns Israel’s seizure of Jerusalem Church land

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s seizure of land belonging to the Jerusalem Patriarchate. Photo: Anadolu Ajansı

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned the actions of Israeli authorities regarding property belonging to the Jerusalem Patriarchate in the Silwan area, Anadolu Ajansı reports.

Diplomats described the incident as a “flagrant violation of the inviolability of church property,” stressing that the seized plot is officially registered in the Church’s name and adjoins an ancient monastery of great archaeological significance.

According to the ministry, Israel is pursuing a “systematic policy” aimed at seizing church property and altering the historical, religious and demographic character of Jerusalem. The ministry emphasized that such measures pose a direct threat to the “authentic Christian presence” in the region.

Palestinian diplomats recalled that, under international law, any acts of annexation and confiscation in East Jerusalem are considered null and void and carry no legal validity. The ministry demanded the immediate return of the land to the Patriarchate and the restoration of the territory’s previous status.

It should be recalled that on June 15, 2026, Israeli security forces carried out a forcible takeover of a church-owned property belonging to the Jerusalem Patriarchate in the Silwan district of Jerusalem. During the operation, police removed the lawful caretaker, cut down trees and fenced off the area, blocking clergy from accessing the property.

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