The Armenian Patriarchate in Jerusalem voiced concerns about the safety of the ancient Armenian community in the city, describing the recent attack as an “existential threat.” The attack, which is believed to have been carried out by Israeli settlers, targeted the Armenian Quarter in occupied East Jerusalem. Masked men reportedly assaulted residents and threw rocks at Orthodox clergy, prompting police to intervene and clear the area. Despite the incident, the patriarchate authorities expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of punitive action against those responsible.
The escalation of settler attacks on Palestinians in East Jerusalem and the West Bank following the recent Hamas attack on Israel has raised concerns about the safety of the indigenous Armenian population. According to a statement from the Patriarchate, individuals affiliated with commercial land deals in the disputed areas are suspected of organizing the criminal attacks on the Armenian community and the Patriarchate. These accusations have prompted calls for an investigation by the Israeli government and the police.
The ethnic targeting and violence directed at the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem have left Bishops, priests, deacons, seminarians, and the local Armenian residents fighting for their safety and wellbeing. The patriarchate’s plea for official intervention underscores the urgent need to address the security and protection of the city’s diverse communities. The conflict over disputed land deals has further fueled tensions in the region, leading to acts of aggression and violence against the Armenian population.
In the face of ongoing threats and attacks, the Armenian Patriarchate in Jerusalem is calling for swift government and law enforcement action to uphold the safety and rights of the ancient Armenian community in the city. The patriarchate’s plea for justice and protection highlights the critical need for intervention to safeguard the lives and heritage of the Armenian Quarter. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by indigenous communities in the midst of regional conflicts and the importance of ensuring their safety and security.
The recent attack on the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem has raised concerns about the safety and security of the ancient Armenian community in the city. The Armenian Patriarchate is calling for official intervention to address the threats and acts of violence targeting the indigenous population. Ongoing tensions and the involvement of individuals in disputed land deals have further exacerbated the challenges faced by the Armenian community in Jerusalem.