Israel creates heritage authority to push West Bank annexation and settlement

The Israeli Knesset approved a law establishing a dedicated "Jewish Heritage Authority" for the West Bank, granting it extensive control over archaeological sites and the ability to expropriate land linked to those sites. The government allocated roughly 250 million shekels for heritage projects, including new visitor centers and tourism infrastructure, notably at the historic Jerusalem Airport site in Qalandia. Officials say the initiative is meant to strengthen Israeli public connection to the region’s historical narrative.

According to the National Office for Land Defense, the move is part of a broader strategy to accelerate annexation and settlement expansion. Reports indicate that more than 140 archaeological locations in the Hebron area have been re‑classified as Israeli heritage sites, covering about 62 % of the region’s recorded sites. Parallel actions include a waste‑treatment facility and the development of the "Atrot" settlement project north of Jerusalem, which threaten the displacement of dozens of Palestinian families.