Cows’ Garden in Jerusalem is now fully under Armenian community’s control — Setrag Balian

The court hearing over the Cows’ Garden (Goveroun Bardez) issue will take place in September 2025, Setrag Balian, founder of the Save the ARQ movement, told Alpha News.

“Lawsuits have been filed over the Cows’ Garden issue. We also know that the first court hearing will take place in September 2025. This is a lawsuit filed by the community. There is no progress yet on the lawsuit by the Patriarchy, but negotiations are ongoing to get a result. I can say that we are wrapping up the year with more or less good positions. Some time ago we were in a more difficult situation. The Armenian community was subjected to violent and aggressive attacks, but at the moment the territory is completely under our control, and the trials are ongoing,” Balian said.

He emphasized that the community has a positive attitude. They are sure that in accordance with the law, they are right and it will protect them.

“It is already known who the judge is. Our lawyers have assured us that he is a good judge, examines and analyzes the lawsuits in detail, and makes decisions based on the available facts and grounds. At least we are optimistic and hope we will win. We are confident that we are right in accordance with the law, and it will protect us. We are a small but good, smart, and strong community, and recent problems and challenges have proven that. All the people of Jerusalem and Christians of the Holy Land are surprised and happy that the Armenian youth is fighting for its land and rights,” Balian concluded.