Sat May 24 07:19:28 UTC 2025: ## Israel’s Park Plan in Sebastia Sparks Heritage Dispute, Fears of Palestinian Displacement
**Sebastia, Occupied West Bank** – A controversial Israeli plan to create a national park and conduct archaeological excavations in the ancient town of Sebastia is igniting tensions, with Palestinians decrying it as an attempt to erase their history and force them off their land.
The Israeli government, led by far-right, pro-settler ministers, aims to highlight Jewish heritage at the site, referring to Sebastia as Samaria, the ancient capital of the Biblical Kingdom of Israel. Minister of Heritage Amichai Eliyahu, a resident of an illegal West Bank settlement, celebrated the commencement of excavations and the forthcoming “Samaria National Park.”
However, Palestinians view the project as a pretext for annexation and a denial of their own rich history. The archaeological site boasts a diverse tapestry of civilizations, including ruins of a Byzantine basilica, a Roman forum and amphitheater, and a Crusader-era church, now a mosque, believed to be the tomb of John the Baptist.
“This is preparation for Sebastia’s annexation and isolation from its surroundings,” stated the Palestinian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
Sebastia Mayor Mohammed Azim warned of dire consequences, claiming a military installation planned for the site is intended to make life unbearable for residents, leading to their eventual displacement. “A river of blood will flow into the village if construction of the barracks begins,” he said, accusing the military of “killing” and targeting children.
Walaa Ghazzal, curator of the Sebastia Archaeological Museum, echoed the concerns, stating residents fear expulsion and prevention from accessing the town and its surrounding areas. “In my opinion, we have only months before we are told to leave our homes,” she said.
Israeli officials maintain the park will not affect the village, but Minister Silman accused Palestinians of attempting to “erase” Jewish heritage, stating “historical justice is being done.”
The plan includes a 30 million shekel ($8m) investment to restore the park, build a tourism center, access roads, and expand military presence. While some Israelis see the project as reconnecting with their Biblical roots, Palestinians fear the desecration of artifacts and the further erosion of their connection to the land.
Villagers vow to resist the plans. Ahmad Kayed, a Sebastia activist, said the ruins will not be “taken without a fight,” referencing past successes in thwarting Israeli encroachment. He said, “This is our history, our life. We will fight until the end.”
Meanwhile, businesses in Sebastia have already suffered significant losses due to increased military presence, with fears that a military outpost would further devastate the local economy.
The Palestinian Authority hopes UNESCO will add Sebastia to its World Heritage list and register of sites “in danger,” seeking international protection against what they see as an existential threat.
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