Jerusalem: The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned the decision of the Israeli occupation authorities to freeze the bank accounts of the Orthodox Patriarchate in occupied Jerusalem and impose exorbitant taxes on its properties.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the OIC considered the decision an extension of repeated attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites and freedom of worship, in violation of UN and UNESCO resolutions and relevant international agreements. The organization emphasized the danger of continued Israeli targeting of holy sites through shelling, burning, imposing illegal taxes, and restricting freedom of access.
The statement further described the actions as an attempt to obliterate the historical, religious, and cultural identity of occupied Jerusalem and target the Christian presence in the Palestinian territories. The OIC renewed its call on the international community for urgent action to end the Israeli occupation's violations against holy sites in Palestine. The organization stressed the importance of preserving these sites' cultural identity and historical and legal status, as they represent a universal human, religious, and civilizational heritage.