Palestinians fear 'archaeology has become a tool' in Israel's plans for West Bank (opens original article in a new tab)

Israeli land seizures around Sebastia's archaeological site, part of a broader policy using heritage to justify settlement expansion, threaten Palestinian livelihoods and cultural heritage.

• Israeli Civil Administration expropriated 1,800 dunams of land around Sebastia archaeological site, including olive trees and private plots.
• Israeli government's heritage plan includes developing West Bank sites, described as part of 'a revolution in Judea and Samaria' with new settlements and housing.
• Palestinian officials and activists claim archaeology is being used as a tool to justify settlement expansion and displacement of Palestinians.