Israel Freezes Greek Orthodox Church’s Bank Accounts in Tax Showdown

Jerusalem has frozen all bank accounts of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate over an ongoing property tax dispute — leaving clergy, teachers, and staff without pay. The city claims the Church owes millions in back taxes for properties not used as houses of worship, while the Patriarchate says this move breaks centuries of precedent and ongoing negotiations. This standoff has deep historical roots, dating back to Ottoman, British, Jordanian, and now Israeli rule — and could have major consequences for Christians in the Holy Land. In this episode, we break down the history, the politics, and what’s at stake for the Church and the faithful.