Armenian Church in Turmoil: Government Crackdown Sparks Outrage

A dramatic confrontation unfolded outside the Armenian Apostolic Church’s headquarters in Etchmiadzin on Friday, as security forces clashed with supporters of Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan. The authorities had issued an order to arrest the senior clergyman over allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, which Ajapahyan denies. The situation escalated into scuffles, with videos showing officers jostling with the crowd. Eventually, the officers withdrew, and Ajapahyan agreed to discuss the allegations with the Armenian Investigative Committee.

This incident marks the latest development in an increasingly tense standoff between the Armenian government and the church. Two days prior, Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan was detained, facing charges of plotting to overthrow the government alongside 13 others. Galstanyan also denies any wrongdoing. The church has condemned the government’s actions, labeling the day “a national shame” due to the authorities’ behavior towards the church. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has accused the church of corruption and violations, while the church has criticized his government’s policies, particularly regarding Azerbaijan.

The conflict between the government and the church reflects deeper historical and political tensions. Pashinyan’s government has been under pressure since major losses in conflicts with Azerbaijan, including the retaking of the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave in 2023. The church, seen as a custodian of Armenian national identity, has been critical of the government’s policies, and some senior clerics have called for Pashinyan’s resignation. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation.