UNESCO Adds West Bank Site and Lebanese Castles to Heritage List

Jul 25, 2026

75 min

Jul 25, 2026 06:31

UNESCO adds West Bank site and Lebanese castles to World Heritage List despite Israeli objections

## UNESCO's Recent Additions

UNESCO has officially recognized an archaeological site in the West Bank and a group of castles in southern Lebanon as World Heritage sites. This decision was made during a meeting in South Korea, despite objections from Israel.

## Controversy Surrounding the Decision

Israel had urged UNESCO to reject these nominations, arguing that the designations were a misuse of cultural heritage. The Israeli Foreign Ministry criticized the move, claiming it was a political attempt to erase historical ties.

## Details of the Sites

The West Bank site, Sebastia, is located near Nablus and is historically significant, with remains from various periods including the Iron Age and Roman times. It is also associated with John the Baptist's burial. The Lebanese castles, located in Mount Amel, showcase architectural styles from different eras, including Crusader and Mamluk influences.

## Reactions from Delegations

The Palestinian delegation to UNESCO celebrated the decision, viewing it as a recognition of the local community's efforts to preserve Sebastia. Meanwhile, a Lebanese delegate emphasized that the castles have been used for cultural purposes since Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000.

## Israel's Position

Israel, which left UNESCO in 2019 citing bias, expressed disappointment over the decision. It accused the Palestinian delegation of conducting a hostile campaign and criticized the inclusion of Beaufort Castle, alleging its use by Hezbollah for military purposes.

## Ongoing Tensions

The decision highlights ongoing tensions in the region, with cultural heritage sites becoming focal points in broader geopolitical disputes.

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