The Palestinian Authority is challenging Israel’s plan to “annex and transfer control” of Palestinian archaeological sites to the Israeli Antiquities Authority. The PA Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities made the call for support to its challenge in response to the Knesset approving a draft law extending the powers of the Israeli Antiquities Authority to antiquities in the occupied West Bank.
“UNESCO and all international institutions working with cultural heritage should confront the occupation government’s decision to annex and transfer control of Palestinian archaeological sites to the occupation government’s Antiquities Authority,” said the ministry. “These criminal acts aim to control Palestinian heritage and steal the cultural capabilities of our people.”
The official statement added that the Israeli occupation’s attempt to avoid its international legal responsibilities and agreements related to the protection of heritage is evidence that the “criminal occupation” seeks, within its escalatory policy, to erase Palestinian heritage, which is regarded as a witness to the right of the Palestinian people and their close connection to the land of Palestine. “The Israeli move is a clear-cut plan aimed at Judaising the Palestinian lands, empowering [illegal] settlers, and isolating Palestinian cities and villages from each other.” ….more
