Russia Worried About Jerusalem church land ruling
Russia has expressed deep concern in the context of Israel’s top court’s decision about Jerusalem church land ruling earlier this month that the purchase of an East Jerusalem property by a Jewish settlement group from the Greek Orthodox Church was legitimate. The decision caused significant backlash within Israel and has resulted in increased tensions with Palestine for it’s perceived legitimacy.
In 2004, the organization of Ateret Cohanim purchased from a church a total of three buildings in a secret transaction. Despite the church filing a suit claiming that the properties were not legally purchased and without its approval, the supreme court decided in favor of the group Ateret Cohanim.
“We are deeply concerned about the situation regarding the Christian presence in Jerusalem,” Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement. “Christians have been an integral part of the cultural and historical heritage of this region for centuries. We hope that these events will not lead to any radical decision that could aggravate an already difficult situation and destabilize the delicate balance of religious co-existence in Jerusalem.”
She said a decision like this is detrimental to the peace of the Holy Land and raises concerns about the position of the Christian community.
Russia demanded that Israel hand over administration of the controversial Jerusalem’s Alexander Nevsky Church in April of this year, after the transfer. It was known that the previous Israeli administration approved the transfer but it was previously suspended.
The Greek Orthodox Church is known to be the largest Christian church in Jerusalem and owning the land for hundred years. The church is frequently accused of benefitting from the sale and leasing of their assets to Israel, which are mostly in Palestinian-occupied territory.
The international community does not acknowledge Israel’s takeover of East Jerusalem during the 1967 Six Day War and subsequent extension of authority over it .According to the Jewish ancient and religious relationship with Jerusalem, it is now regarded the entire capital.
Palestinians regard East Jerusalem as the future major capital of their state, along with the Old city. They perceive Israel’s existence as a grave threat. They consider it to be an affront to their faith and a violation of international law. Consequently, they view any Israeli attempts to extend sovereignty over these areas as a violation of international law.
Source: timesofisrael
