Hundreds of Archaeological Sites Damaged in Gaza due to Israeli Offensive, says Israeli NGO. An Israeli organization, Emek Shaveh, reported that Israel’s offensive on the Gaza Strip has resulted in the destruction of hundreds of historical and archaeological sites and artifacts. The organization called on the Israeli government to fulfill its international obligations to protect cultural heritage sites in Gaza.
Emek Shaveh emphasized that using cultural sites for military purposes could be considered a war crime under international law. Gaza is home to numerous heritage sites, including antiquities sites, historic buildings, museums, cultural centers, archives, monuments, and libraries.
The Israeli NGO revealed that 60% of heritage sites in Gaza have suffered extensive damage or have been destroyed during the conflict, including significant landmarks like the al-Omari Mosque and the Church of St. Porphyrius. The statement followed a video showing an official from Israel’s Antiquities Authority (IAA) inspecting antiquities in Gaza with Israeli army soldiers.
“We wish to reiterate that the heritage sites in Gaza belong to the people of Gaza,” emphasized the Israeli group. The destruction of these sites is not only a loss for the people of Gaza and Palestinians but for all individuals living in and sharing the land.
Last month, Gaza’s government media office reported that over 200 archaeological and heritage sites were destroyed in Israeli attacks on the enclave since October 7. The Israeli offensive, launched following Hamas’ attack on October 7, resulted in significant casualties, with over 25,000 Palestinians killed and 63,000 injured. Additionally, around 1,200 Israelis are believed to have died in the conflict.
The offensive has also led to the internal displacement of 85% of Gaza’s population, causing severe shortages of food, clean water, and medicine. Furthermore, 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, according to the United Nations.
