Egypt denies court ruling threatens historic monastery

Egypt has dismissed concerns that a recent court ruling regarding the land use of Sinai’s Saint Catherine monastery jeopardizes its UNESCO heritage status, despite warnings from Greek and church authorities. The ruling affirmed the monastery’s right to use the land, prompting criticism from Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens, who claimed it infringes on religious freedoms and could lead to the property’s confiscation. The Egyptian government, however, pledged to uphold the monastery’s sacred status and rejected rumors of any violations, emphasizing their commitment to preserving its religious significance.