Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington during an official visit to the United States, where the two leaders discussed the situation of Christians in the Middle East, religious freedom, and the protection of holy sites.

According to the Jerusalem Patriarchate, the meeting focused on preserving the Christian presence in the Holy Land and safeguarding the rights of believers. Particular attention was given to ensuring access to religious shrines and sacred sites for members of all faith communities.

During the meeting, Patriarch Theophilos III presented President Trump with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, the highest honor awarded by the Jerusalem Orthodox Church.

The Patriarch outlined the major challenges facing Christian communities across the region, emphasizing the need to preserve their historic presence, protect holy places, and strengthen the Church’s mission of service, compassion, and peacebuilding.

The discussion also addressed restrictions affecting access to places of worship in Jerusalem. According to Patriarch Theophilos, such measures impact both Christians and Muslims, limiting participation in religious celebrations and potentially undermining interfaith harmony.

The Patriarch stressed that freedom of worship in Jerusalem is closely linked to maintaining the historic status quo governing the administration of the city’s holy sites. He described the arrangement as essential for preserving religious balance and stability in Jerusalem.

Theophilos III also highlighted the Jerusalem Patriarchate’s role in promoting peace and interreligious dialogue. He noted plans to visit several countries, including Russia, as part of the Church’s ongoing international engagement.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Patriarch invited President Trump to visit Jordan and the traditional site of Jesus Christ’s baptism on the Jordan River. He underscored Jordan’s importance as a model of religious freedom and interfaith coexistence in the region.