Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem expressed deep concern about the situation in the Holy Land

Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, together with the Council of Patriarchs and Heads of Churches of Jerusalem, held a meeting with Consuls General and the diplomatic corps at the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. During the meeting, His Beatitude expressed grave concern over restrictions on religious freedom, the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and escalating settler attacks in the West Bank, emphasizing the urgent need for international intervention and humanitarian assistance.

According to Orthodox Times, Patriarch Theophilos III spoke of the heavy human toll throughout the Holy Land, with a special focus on Gaza, where destruction and hardship continue to affect innocent residents. He recalled his pastoral visit to Gaza with Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa and praised the resilient witness of Christian communities who continue to serve and show compassion in the midst of suffering. His Beatitude also emphasized the importance of continued international engagement to support recovery and interfaith responsibility.

«The Church cannot turn away from human pain,» the Patriarch stated. — The Lord teaches us that whatever we do for the least among us, we do for Him. This truth guides our presence and our duty on this earth.» Patriarch Theophilus III went on to warn of an escalation of settler attacks in the West Bank, citing attacks affecting Christian communities in Taiba and Birzeit, and expressing concern over the expansion of settlements near Beit Sahour, one of the largest remaining Christian towns in the West Bank.

The Patriarch of Jerusalem also expressed grave concern over restrictions on religious freedom in Jerusalem, including limits imposed during the celebration of the Holy Fire and Holy Week. He emphasized that access to holy sites is a sacred right rooted in centuries of faith and the Status Quo. His Beatitude referred to the strict limits on the number of worshippers allowed, the disruption of traditional Scout participation and aggressive police action as unacceptable violations of religious freedom and human dignity.

He also reiterated the Church’s call for humanitarian access so that children with cancer from Gaza can reach Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem for life-saving care. In addition, the Patriarch noted the urgent need to address the permit problems faced by teachers and essential staff, which disrupts education and deprives them of their livelihoods. «Our mission is healing,» he said. — To heal bodies, to heal souls and to protect the dignity that God has bestowed on every human being.»

Recall that renowned American journalist Tucker Carlson drew attention to the complex situation of Christians in the Holy Land in his new report, arguing that their persecution is increasing in U.S.-funded Israel, while in neighboring Muslim Jordan, Christians are thriving and feel safer.