Israeli Government Advances Historic Heritage Preservation Plan in Judea and Samaria with Half-Billion Shekel Investment

The Israeli government steering committee has approved the continuation of the master plan "Derech Eretz Heritage," which allocates approximately 500 million shekels over five years for the preservation, development, and accessibility of archaeological sites in Judea and Samaria. The plan also includes efforts to combat antiquities theft and an academic boycott against research in the region.

Eytan Granek, CEO of the Heritage Ministry and head of the steering committee, described the initiative as a historic turning point. Since 2023, three government decisions have secured the funding, which targets about 150 key sites out of roughly 4,000 heritage locations in Judea and Samaria, exceeding the number within Israel's pre-1967 borders. Each site will receive tailored preservation and development plans, including the establishment of significant archaeological parks to boost tourism and heritage awareness.

A flagship project is the creation of a national park in Sebastia, envisioned as the "Caesarea of Judea and Samaria." Following an international event at Herodium this year, a major event is planned for Sebastia next year to elevate its status as a global heritage destination. Granek noted the challenges in securing government and treasury support but emphasized the unified backing achieved for the program.

The ministry also sees the sites as key to increasing inbound tourism, especially from evangelical visitors who frequent locations like Shiloh, Herodium, and Abel. Granek highlighted the frequent visits by U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee to Shiloh and expressed optimism for growing tourism as the regional conflict subsides.

Addressing the academic boycott, the ministry is actively organizing international conferences in Israel to support researchers working in Judea and Samaria, stressing the global significance of the area's archaeology beyond its Israeli heritage. Preservation work will soon begin on Herod's Pools, with a 3 million shekel budget to protect the site after recent flooding attracted visitors but raised conservation concerns. Solomon's Pools will also receive about 10 million shekels to develop a heritage center showcasing the ancient water system supplying Jerusalem.

Granek acknowledged that future governments might alter priorities but stressed the urgency of establishing tangible progress now to safeguard Judea and Samaria's heritage for future generations.