Israel Seizes Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Land in East Jerusalem

The Cabinet of Israel seized land belonging to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem in the town of Silwan, East Jerusalem, on June 15, 2026. The seizure took place adjacent to a historic monastery and involved the expulsion of the Patriarchate's representative, the confiscation of equipment, the uprooting of trees, and the installation of fences and gates.

Both Palestinian and Jordanian authorities condemned the action as a violation of international law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine characterized the move as part of a systematic policy to alter the religious and demographic character of occupied Jerusalem, demanding an immediate restoration of the status quo and international protection for holy sites.

Jordanian spokesperson Fuad Majali asserted that Israel possesses no sovereignty over occupied Jerusalem or its holy sites. Majali called on the international community to compel Israel to halt the illegal measures and stated that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state remains the only path toward regional stability.