Unprecedented statement: "We see the persecution of the 'Turks' in western Thrace"!
UNESCO
The decision has caused global interest
The decision paves the way for the UNESCO site to be converted into Mosque
Turkey's attempt to change the status of the Hagia Sophia has provoked strong reactions from the US, Russia & France
The issue has caused widespread intervention across the globe
US Secretary of State intervened on issue calling on Turkey to refrain from turning the site into Mosque
The Hagia Sophia holds enormous spiritual and cultural significance to billions of believers of different faiths
The change in the status of a cultural heritage site requires a series of requirements to be met
The country's Supreme Court is scheduled to rule on the matter on July 2
The excavation site is part of the Roman Limes which is the ancient northern border of the Roman Empire
