Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem asks Trump to guarantee access to holy sites across region

The Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem, one of the top figures in a communion of over 200 million adherents, asked US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office yesterday to ensure access to holy sites in the region, says the Patriarchate.

“Christian communities in the Middle East have in recent years faced a difficult reality of instability, growing threats and increasing pressure,” said Theopholis III.

“We are seeing ancient communities asking for something very basic: to continue living in safety, to preserve their faith and to maintain freedom of worship.”

In March, at the height of war with Iran, Israel was the target of global anger after police officers kept two top Catholic clergymen from reaching the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem’s Old City to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass.

There has also been a series of incidents in recent years involving harassment of and attacks on Christians, especially in Jerusalem.

“Mr President, as a close friend and as someone who understands the importance of protecting Christian communities and the holy places, preserving freedom of religion and open access to the holy places is not only a religious matter – it is a condition for stability, coexistence and peace across the entire region,” said Theophilos, according to the Patriarchate.