Egypt nationalizes ancient monastery’s grounds, fraying ties between Athens and Cairo

Disbelief and outrage spread across the Middle East and Greece following news of a court ruling in Egypt that called for the nationalization of an ancient Orthodox Christian Monastery in the Sinai Desert. The ruling also ordered the eviction of monks to make room for a museum at St. Catherine’s Monastery. The monastery, established in the 6th century, is considered the world’s oldest continuously operating Christian monastery.

While Egypt’s presidency clarified that the monks can continue their religious duties at the monastery, the lands now belong to the Egyptian state. Greek politicians and Christian leaders condemned the ruling as a violation of religious and human rights. Despite assurances from the Egyptian government, concerns remain about the monastery’s future.

Greek officials are set to travel to Egypt to address the situation. The monastery’s legal ownership, previously unclear under Egyptian law, has now been transferred to the state, leaving monks with limited control. Orthodox leaders worldwide are calling for the preservation of the monastery’s autonomy and heritage.