Israeli authorities have begun seizing Palestinian-owned land at major archaeological sites in the occupied West Bank, citing preservation and development purposes. At Sebastia, a site with remains spanning thousands of years from multiple civilizations, approximately 450 acres are being taken from local Palestinian landowners who typically receive little to no compensation. Residents and business owners face potential displacement, with one restaurant under threat of demolition and agricultural plots to be cordoned off.
The land seizures have drawn international attention, with Unesco designating Sebastia as both a World Heritage Site and adding it to its List of World Heritage in Danger, citing concerns about the “planned expropriation and creation of the ‘Samaria’ national park.” The Israeli government allocated roughly 113 million shekels earlier this week to expand its control over archaeological sites across the West Bank. Israeli activists and international observers argue that the development plans have circumvented consultation with Palestinian municipalities and local communities who could benefit from the heritage sites.
Similar expropriations are occurring at Herodium, where Israel has begun seizing about 80 acres. International law organizations note that under both international law and Israeli Supreme Court rulings, such expropriations are generally prohibited unless intended to serve both Palestinian and Israeli populations, though critics contend the primary purpose appears linked to expanding Israeli control.
The Israeli government maintains that archaeological preservation is essential given the historical and religious significance of these sites. However, critics argue that archaeology has become a tool for territorial reallocation. A proposed law introduced earlier this year would have granted Israel’s heritage ministry broad powers to seize land for archaeological purposes, though it remains stalled pending upcoming elections.
Palestinian residents express deep concern about losing access to ancestral lands and cultural heritage, while Israeli activists warn that weaponizing archaeology risks rewriting history and displacing Palestinian communities from sites integral to their own heritage and livelihoods.
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