Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew on Monday, criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, saying the patriarchate supports the continuation of the status-quo in Jerusalem.
“During a recent visit to Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, I expressed by absolute view that the status quo of holy city of Jerusalem should be kept, despite new decisions to change it,” Bartholomew said.
“All Christians in Jerusalem; not only the Orthodox, but also the Catholics and Armenians, share the same view,” he said.
“Why has the Middle East seen new pains in addition to the pain it already faces,” the religious leader asked.
Letter to Palestinian president
Bartholomew said he received an official message from Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Day.
“In my response, I expended my wish for peace for the Palestinian people in 2018, who have been tested by difficulties, faced injustice and lost its people,” he said.