The Armenian community of Jerusalem is facing serious problems. Zareh Sinanyan, High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of Armenia, stated this while speaking with reporters Tuesday.

Sinanyan explained that the Jerusalem Municipality presents tax obligations to the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem.

He added that the Jerusalem authorities report on unpaid taxes and warn about the consequences of non-payment of this amount.

According to Sinanyan's calculations, this debt can be paid at the expense of Armenian property and territory in Jerusalem. The Armenian official added, however, that this could be fatal for the Armenian presence in Jerusalem.

He recalled that the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City was built over the centuries—and as a result of major investments by Armenian benefactors.

“Now there is a risk of loss,” the Armenian official emphasized.

Sinanyan added that they often turn to the Armenian government for solutions to these problems.