ISLAMABAD: Egypt has denied that a recent court ruling poses any threat to the historic St Catherine’s Monastery in the Sinai Peninsula, following strong objections from Greece and the Greek Orthodox Church.
The controversy arose after a local court declared that the ancient religious site is located on state-owned land, sparking fears that the monastery’s autonomy and religious character might be undermined.
The sixth-century St Catherine’s Monastery, situated at the biblical site of the burning bush, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery in the world.
On Wednesday, a Sinai court ruled in a land dispute with the South Sinai governorate that while the monastery may “use” the land, ownership lies with the state as “public property.”
Diplomatic Assurances from Cairo
In response to concerns, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi spoke with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, assuring him that Egypt is “fully committed to preserving the unique and sacred religious status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery.” The Egyptian Foreign Ministry later issued a statement denying any intention of confiscation and reaffirming that the court ruling “does not infringe at all” on the monastery’s religious or historical significance.
Greece, however, has voiced concern. Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of maintaining the pilgrimage site’s Greek Orthodox character and resolving the issue within the framework of existing bilateral agreements. A Greek delegation is scheduled to visit Egypt next week to address the matter diplomatically.
Greek Orthodox Church Alarmed by Ruling
Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens condemned the ruling, calling it “scandalous” and an infringement on religious freedoms.
He warned it could signal a dark period for the monastery, potentially leading to the seizure of church property despite assurances from Egyptian authorities.
His concerns echo those of local and international observers who say Egypt’s ongoing development of the St Catherine area, aimed at boosting mass tourism, is already impacting the surrounding ecosystem and community.
Both governments have reiterated their commitment to protecting the monastery’s religious heritage. Greek officials are awaiting the full court judgment before issuing an official stance.
