?An archaeological site in Sebastia. (Photo courtesy of Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

NABLUS, Wednesday, December 2019 (WAFA) – Palestinian students on a field trip today at Sebastia archaeological site in the north of the West Bank were harassed by Israeli soldiers, who detained them at the site, according to Sebastia mayor Mohammad Azem.

He told WAFA that soldiers broke into the site north of the Nablus city while the students were on a field trip and detained the students inside it.

He said the soldiers harassed the students and provoked clashes in the area.

Israel has been trying to take over the Palestinian archaeological site as it encourages settlers to visit it while preventing Palestinians from taking care of it even though it is located in the heart of the occupied West Bank.

The present town of Sebastia, including the archaeological remains, the historical town, and the cultural landscape, is one of Palestine’s major tourist attractions. A series of restoration activities was carried out in the historic core, including renovation of the mosque, the shrine of Nabi Yahyia, the Cathedral of John the Baptist, the Roman mausoleum, the olive press, Kayed Palace, and the traditional buildings, along with a walking trail.

M.K.