Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Urges Vice President JD Vance to Listen to Palestinian Voices During Holy Land Visit

Jerusalem, 22 October 2025 — As U.S. Vice President JD Vance visits Israel and the Palestinian territories this week.

The Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem, Archbishop Atallah Hanna, has issued an open letter urging the American leader to listen to Palestinian voices and promote a peace rooted in justice and mutual respect.

In his message, released ahead of Vice President Vance’s visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Archbishop Hanna welcomed the Vice President to one of Christianity’s most sacred sites, describing it as “a place open to all visitors regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background.” He expressed hope that the visit would inspire greater understanding among faiths and contribute to lasting peace in the Holy Land.

“I address you in the language of love, faith, and humanity — not politics or interests,” the Patriarch wrote, calling on the U.S. administration to act with compassion and fairness in its policies toward the region.

Archbishop Hanna noted the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis, particularly in Gaza, urging that “peace cannot be built on injustice, occupation, and oppression.” He encouraged Vice President Vance to meet with Palestinian representatives during his stay, emphasizing that a true path to peace requires hearing all sides of the conflict.

The Patriarch also highlighted the challenges faced by Palestinian Christians, including restrictions on access to holy sites such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. He called for the protection of “freedom of worship and movement for all who call this land home.”

“As you enter the Church of the Resurrection, remember that this sacred place reminds us of the victory of life over death, good over evil, and love over hate,” Archbishop Hanna said. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”

He concluded his message with a prayer for reconciliation, urging world leaders to “work to remove injustice and restore dignity and peace for all people of the region.”

Vice President Vance expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and for the opportunity to experience one of Christianity’s most sacred sites. The visit underscored the strong relationship between the United States and the Christian communities of the Holy Land, as well as the shared commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region.