image sourced from original article at The Knesset has approved in a first reading a controversial bill to establish a new civilian body that would oversee antiquities and archaeological sites in the West Bank. The proposed Judea and Samaria Heritage Authority would transfer responsibility from the Defense Ministry to a new entity operating under direct Israeli civilian control. Supporters say the measure is necessary to protect heritage sites from neglect and looting.
Critics argue the legislation amounts to de facto annexation and exceeds Israel’s authority under existing agreements and interpretations of international law. Professional archaeologists and legal advisers have warned that the bill could expand Israeli powers in the territory, including land expropriation and enforcement measures affecting Palestinian residents.
The West Bank contains more than 2,600 archaeological sites of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim significance. The bill must still pass two additional readings after further committee deliberations before it can become law.
