Statement by the Armenian National Congress on the Police and NSS Assault on the Armenian Apostolic Church Cathedral:

The Armenian National Congress strongly condemns the unprecedented attack carried out by the authorities of the Republic of Armenia against the cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The actions of the Police and National Security Service on June 27, 2025, targeting the most important symbol of Armenia's spiritual and national identity — the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin — are unacceptable and undermine centuries-old values and the unity of the Armenian people.

For over 1,700 years, the Armenian Apostolic Church has served as the spiritual leader of the Armenian people, a pillar of statehood, and a vital bearer of national identity. These actions, carried out by the authorities, not only violate the principle of the separation of church and state enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, but also directly threaten our national unity — particularly in this time of crisis when cohesion is of existential importance.

We are deeply concerned that these steps by the authorities may be part of a broader agenda aimed at diminishing the historic role of the Armenian Church and undermining national values. Such actions, enforced through violence and coercion, recall the darkest pages of our history and are unacceptable in a democratic state.

The Armenian National Congress calls for:

  • An immediate end to all actions targeting the Armenian Apostolic Church.
  • Respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia and the Church’s independence.
  • Refraining from any encroachments on national sanctities and spiritual values.
  • Citizens of Armenia, the clergy, and the international community to unite in defense of the Armenian Apostolic Church and its sanctuaries.

The Armenian National Congress affirms its solidarity with the Armenian Apostolic Church and its firm commitment to protecting our national spiritual heritage. We call upon all compatriots to unite in this struggle for the dignity and unity of our nation.