Jerusalem, July 16, 2026
Photo: jerusalem-patriarchate.info
His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem received U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee at the Patriarchate’s headquarters in Jerusalem’s Old City on Monday.
The two discussed the situation of Christians in the Holy Land, humanitarian access in Gaza, pilgrimage restrictions at Mount Tabor, and Church property rights, reports the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Pat. Theophilos called on the ambassador to back the establishment of a medical corridor allowing cancer patients from Gaza, including children, to receive treatment at Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem. The request reflects a principle the Patriarch articulated earlier this year: “The Church’s ministry is to help alleviate all human pain.”
The Patriarch also raised concerns about limitations on clergy and pilgrims seeking to reach Mount Tabor ahead of the upcoming Feast of the Transfiguration. He drew attention to the June 15 seizure of Patriarchal property in the Silwan neighborhood by Israeli authorities, as well as what he described as the discriminatory enforcement of Arnona municipal property taxes against churches.
Pat. Theophilos additionally spoke of his efforts toward spiritual mediation between Russia and Ukraine, framing them within the Church’s broader ministry of reconciliation, and expressed his hope that dialogue would bring both nations closer to a just peace.
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