Armenia begins trial of church leader Garegin II and six bishops

A legal proceeding has commenced in Armenia against the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Catholicos Garegin II, and six high-ranking bishops. The trial marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the influential church and the government of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

The government has leveled several accusations against the church leadership, including violations of celibacy, involvement in political activities, and ties to foreign intelligence services. Prosecutors specifically allege that the defendants obstructed justice during a dispute involving a pro-government bishop.

In response, the Armenian Apostolic Church maintains that the legal actions are politically motivated. The tension between the state and the church intensified following Armenia's military defeat in a conflict with Azerbaijan, during which Garegin II called for Pashinyan's resignation. The dispute has contributed to deep societal divisions within the country.