Erdogan: We don’t need permission from Greece to convert Sophia into mosque

Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Photo: bykvu.com

Turkey does not need to ask permission from Greece to turn Hagia Sophia into a mosque. This was announced by Turkish President Reghel Tayyip Erdogan on Monday, June 8, 2020, reports “Romfea”.

“Now they’re talking about Aiye-Sophia,” the agency quotes the Turkish leader’s comment on Greece’s reaction to Ankara’s recent statements. “They say you will not turn it into a mosque. Are you people of the Turkish administration?" 

He stressed that in this issue Turkey does not need to ask anyone for permission.

“We will not take permission from you. As a rule of law, we are waiting for the decision of the Council of State. After the decision, we will act accordingly, ”Erdogan said.

The revision of the status of Hagia Sophia is supported by the closest ally of Erdogan – Nationalist Action Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, who said: “Hagia Sophia is a mosque, a symbol of the conquest of the Turkish Muslim people. This is a truth that does not change and everyone must realize it. By the will of Allah, then not the sound of bells but the adhan will be heard from Hagia Sophia.” 

As reported earlier, the State Council of Turkey will consider the possibility of changing the status of Hagia Sophia from a museum to an active mosque on July 2.

Read also

EXCLUSIVE: ROCOR Weighs Canonization of Its First U.S.-Born Saint

Abp. Gabriel of Montreal and Canada speaks to UOJ-USA about the commission to investigate the life of Fr. Seraphim Rose.

Metr. Shio Receives Church Leaders in Tbilisi

Orthodox delegations gathered in Tbilisi to honor Patr. Ilia II and affirm unity among the Churches.

Abp. Mark Visits Pennsylvania Parish for Lenten Services

Abp. Mark’s visit strengthened Coal Region faithful during their Lenten journey.

Metr. Saba Appeals for Lebanon Relief Donations

Metr. Saba calls for urgent donations to aid displaced families in Lebanon.

New Orthodox Parish School Set to Open in Pennsylvania

"The School has been in the prayers of St. John Chrysostom Orthodox Church since the community's founding in 1992," a press release states. "Through God, all things are possible!"

Ancient Monastic Complex Found in Egypt

A newly discovered Egyptian site highlights the scale and sophistication of early monastic life.