Russia presses Israel over Alexander Courtyard as Jerusalem ownership battle nears decision

Russia is intensifying pressure on Israel regarding the future of the Alexander Courtyard in Jerusalem’s Old City, as Russian Ambassador to Israel Anatoly Viktorov made an unusual visit to the disputed compound. The Russian Embassy recently stated that the re-registration of ownership rights to the Russian Federation is in its final stages, describing the issue as purely legal. However, Israeli officials stress that the matter remains under professional review and that it is premature to determine if or when the process will be completed. Officials suggest that Moscow is waging a public campaign to create an impression of inevitability to pressure Israeli decision-makers. The Alexander Courtyard, which includes the Church of St. Alexander Nevsky and significant archaeological sites, was established in the late 19th century by the Imperial Orthodox Palestine Society (IOPS). Ownership has been disputed since the Russian Revolution. In 2020, the Netanyahu government designated the site a holy place, but a petition by the IOPS halted the transfer process. Experts at Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies have warned that handing over the compound could provide Russia with a strategic foothold in Jerusalem and raise concerns given Moscow’s close ties with Iran.