Israeli Diaspora Minister Strongly Condemns UNESCO's Palestinian Heritage Designation of Sebastia

Israeli Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, Amichai Shikli, sharply criticized UNESCO's decision to recognize Sebastia as a Palestinian heritage site. During a visit to Sebastia in the West Bank, Shikli expressed outrage at the international organization's move, calling the designation "a joke to intelligence." He emphasized his ministry's commitment to strengthening Israeli presence and heritage preservation across Samaria, including allocating dedicated budgets for site maintenance and public accessibility.

To underline the Jewish historical connection to Sebastia, Shikli cited a passage from the First Book of Kings (Chapter 16, Verses 23-24), which recounts the history of the ancient capital of Israel located there. He urged Israeli citizens to visit these historic sites to appreciate their significance firsthand. Shikli reaffirmed his ministry's substantial investment in developing the Sebastia heritage site and pledged to continue building and restoring the land for future generations.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over heritage claims in the West Bank, with Israel rejecting Palestinian claims to sites it considers central to Jewish history. Shikli's remarks reflect a broader governmental effort to assert Israeli sovereignty and cultural ties to the region despite international disputes. The ministry plans to maintain and expand its support for heritage projects in the area moving forward.