PARIS, May 22, 2025 (WAFA) – UNESCO called on Israel to refrain from any actions that could harm the archaeological site of Sebastia, emphasizing the collective responsibility to protect the site's exceptional historical and cultural values ​​for present and future generations.

After being informed of the ongoing construction and development projects, as well as the archaeological activities carried out by the Israeli Ministry of Heritage at the site, UNESCO emphasized that all such work must comply with international law and be carried out with the consent and cooperation of all parties concerned, in accordance with the 1956 Recommendation on International Principles Relating to Archaeological Excavations and the principles of relevant UNESCO conventions.

In turn, Ali Abu Zuhri, member of the Palestine Liberation Organization's Executive Committee and Chairman of the National Committee for Tangible and Intangible Heritage, welcomed UNESCO's position, stressing that it is an important step in the right direction toward protecting Palestinian cultural heritage, especially in light of the increasing threats facing the site of Sebastia. He also expressed his appreciation for UNESCO's willingness to continue coordination and take the necessary measures within the scope of its mandate.

He noted that UNESCO's position is constructive, encouraging practical steps, including sending an urgent monitoring mission to the site to assess the imminent threats and strengthening cooperation with relevant Palestinian authorities, in line with the organization's mandate and international obligations.

Abu Zuhri stressed the need for the committee to continue working closely with UNESCO to ensure the protection of the site of Sebastia and all threatened cultural sites, reaffirming the State of Palestine's continued commitment to preserving heritage as an integral part of the national identity and collective memory of the Palestinian people.

He condemned the Israeli Antiquities Authority's unilateral excavation and development activities in occupied territory, without the consent of the occupying power and in complete disregard of international law and relevant UNESCO resolutions. He emphasized that these activities constitute a flagrant violation of the occupying power's obligations and pose a direct threat to the site's identity and historical nature.

Sebastia, which has been on the State of Palestine's tentative list since 2012, is a site of deep-rooted cultural significance, reflecting the succession of civilizations in Palestine. It is a cultural site protected by several international legal instruments, most notably the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, its 1999 Second Protocol, and the 1972 World Heritage Convention.

K.T