Protecting Heritage: PLO Warns Against Illegal Settlement Outpost in Bethlehem
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) issued a warning about the dangers of establishing an illegal settlement outpost at an archaeological site in Bethlehem. The PLO’s National Bureau for the Defense of Land highlighted the threat posed by the Nahal Helitz outpost on the heritage of the village of Battir, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the establishment of the illegal outpost in September, putting the cultural heritage of Battir at risk. The outpost, approved by the Israeli government, aims to connect Jerusalem and other illegal settlements, isolating Battir and neighboring villages from the West Bank.
UNESCO declared Battir a World Heritage Site in response to earlier plans to build the separation wall through its lands. The village’s traditional agricultural practices and terraces are unique, making it a site of historical significance.
The PLO’s warning comes amid ongoing tensions in the West Bank, exacerbated by Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. It calls for the preservation of heritage sites and the protection of Palestinian lands from illegal settler encroachment.
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