RAMALLAH, June 11, 2026 (WAFA) – Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa met on Thursday with a delegation from Bethlehem Governorate to discuss efforts to revive and develop the Solomon’s Pools area, strengthen its resilience, and protect it from ongoing threats and attacks by Israeli occupation authorities and settlers.
The delegation included Bethlehem Governor Mohammad Abu Alia, the mayors of Bethlehem, Al-Khader and Artas, and representatives of the civil society and the media. The meeting was attended by several ministers and senior officials.
Participants reviewed a series of practical plans and measures aimed at transforming Solomon’s Pools into a vibrant tourist, cultural and recreational destination serving both local residents and visitors.
Mustafa stressed the importance of protecting the historic and tourist site and called for intensified cooperation between government institutions, local communities and the private sector to rehabilitate and develop the area while preserving its national significance. He emphasized the need to safeguard the site against attempts to seize it and alter its historical character.
The Prime Minister said all proposals presented during the meeting would be examined and translated into practical steps in coordination with relevant authorities. He instructed the responsible bodies to follow up on the area’s needs and prepare development plans that would maximize its historical and tourism potential while supporting the steadfastness of local residents.
The meeting discussed a number of proposed initiatives, including incentives to support local businesses, the construction of a mosque for residents and visitors, the establishment of public facilities and essential services, and the pursuit of legal and diplomatic efforts to protect the site. Participants also highlighted the importance of utilizing municipal twinning relationships to mobilize support and raise international awareness of the area.
Officials further emphasized the need to continuously review development plans, accelerate infrastructure projects, rehabilitate surrounding areas and ensure adequate security and protection measures.
The discussions also addressed several issues related to Bethlehem Governorate, including the Bethlehem University housing project and wastewater management in the towns of Al-Khader and Artas. Participants stressed the importance of increasing media coverage of Solomon’s Pools, organizing school visits and hosting summer camps to strengthen younger generations’ connection to the site.
The meeting also reviewed efforts to secure recognition of Solomon’s Pools as a national park and to continue coordination with UNESCO regarding the site. Participants affirmed readiness regarding land ownership matters and the preparation of plans necessary for the site’s development and protection.
M.N
