Press Release
The Endowment Department of the Latin Patriarchate Held a Field Meeting with the Military Authorities and Civil Administration Regarding Settler Encroachments on Tayasir/Hamam Il-Maleh Lands – Tubas Governorate
The Endowment Department of the Latin Patriarchate held a field meeting today, Wednesday, 23/4/2026, in the areas of Tayasir and Hamam Il-Maleh, with representatives of the Military Authorities and Civil Administration to discuss the serious effects of the recent settler encroachments on lands owned by the Latin Patriarchate in the Tayasir area of Tubas Governorate.
As part of the legal follow-up, the Department submitted an official and documented complaint to the relevant authorities, including details of the attacks against local residents and Patriarchate lands in several locations. Following this complaint, the authorities began the necessary actions, including pursuing those responsible and seizing heavy machinery used for land destruction and damage at the site. During the meeting, the Patriarchate through the Endowment Department expressed its full rejection of these actions, describing them as a clear violation of Church properties. It called for the immediate removal of all damage caused, prevention of any future intrusions into these areas, and the provision of legal protection for the Patriarchate’s lands.
Representatives of the relevant authorities acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and committed to the immediate removal of the encroachments, and continuing legal action against those involved.
The Patriarchate also confirmed its support for the people and residents of the area, and its continued commitment to helping them remain steadfast, protect their dignity, and live in safety and stability, in line with the Church’s humanitarian mission in service of people and land. His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa was fully informed of the developments and gave instructions to follow the matter seriously and to provide all possible support to the local people during these difficult circumstances.
The Endowment Department of the Latin Patriarchate confirms that protecting Church endowment properties is a red line. It will continue to take all legal and administrative steps needed to protect their sanctity, preserve their Church identity, defend their lawful rights, and continue supporting the local people.
