Egypt Clarifies Judicial Decision Does Not Alter St. Catherine Monastery Status

The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement regarding recent rumors about the expropriation of property and eviction of monks from St. Catherine’s Monastery. Hours after the judicial decision was announced, Egypt refuted these claims, clarifying that the ruling is fully aligned with maintaining the status quo. Specifically, responding to a question from the Middle East News Agency (MENA) concerning the May 28th court decision regarding lands around the monastery, an official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that these claims are entirely false. The spokesperson noted: ‘Firstly, there is absolutely no harm to St. Catherine’s Monastery, its archaeological sites, spiritual value, religious status, or cemeteries.’ Additionally, the representative highlighted that this judicial decision marks the first time the monastery’s status has been legally recognized, preserving its sacred standing. Furthermore, despite some additional spaces under agreements with local authorities, considered natural forests but significant due to the monastery’s spiritual and religious prestige, the ruling ensures monks can continue using the monastery and surrounding religious and archaeological areas. Lastly, the decision mentioned certain remote natural reserves far from the monastery, confirming no documentation exists for them.