JEDDAH, August 17, 2025 (WAFA) – 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.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the OIC considered the decision an extension of its repeated attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites and freedom of worship, in flagrant violation of UN and UNESCO resolutions and relevant international agreements.

It also warned of the danger of the continued Israeli targeting of holy sites through shelling, burning, imposing illegal taxes, and restricting freedom of access.

"This is an unacceptable attempt to obliterate the historical, religious, and cultural identity of occupied Jerusalem and target the authentic Christian presence in the Palestinian territories," it said.

The OIC renewed its call on the international community to take urgent action to put an end to the Israeli occupation's violations against holy sites in Palestine and to preserve their cultural identity and historical and legal status, as they constitute a universal human, religious, and civilizational heritage that must not be violated.

K.T