Israel targets over 180 archaeological sites in Gaza, says Palestinian minister

Israel’s military forces have targeted 188 archaeological sites in the Gaza Strip since the start of the ongoing conflict on Oct. 7, 2023, according to Palestinian Minister for Heritage and Tourism Hani al-Hayek.

Speaking at a symposium organized by the United Nations in Ramallah, Hayek condemned the destruction of Gaza’s cultural heritage and the broader implications of Israel’s military operations.

Cultural heritage destruction in Gaza

Hayek, during the “Destruction of Cultural Heritage in Gaza” symposium, stated that the Israeli bombardments had destroyed or severely damaged 188 archaeological sites across the Gaza Strip. “Since October 7, Israel has been targeting Gaza’s archaeological sites, and many have been completely or partially destroyed,” said Hayek.

He highlighted that the Israeli military strikes had also targeted historical mosques, churches, and museums in Gaza.

Hayek noted that these actions were part of a deliberate attempt by Israel to erase the Palestinian identity and heritage, emphasizing that many of these sites serve as vital evidence of Palestinian history in the region.

“The Israeli occupation aims to destroy everything Palestinian, from people to stones,” Hayek asserted, underscoring that the cultural sites being targeted are integral to the national identity of Palestinians.

Destruction of major historical sites in Gaza

Among the significant sites destroyed in the attacks, Hayek mentioned the “Al-Omari Mosque,” one of the largest mosques in Palestine with a history spanning 1,400 years, and the “Saint Porphyrius Church,” a fifth-century Christian church in Gaza, which is the third-oldest church in the world.

According to the Gaza government’s Media Office, as of the latest reports, 206 out of the 325 archaeological sites in Gaza have either been partially or entirely destroyed.

During the symposium, Hayek appealed to the international community to recognize the severity of the situation and take action to prevent further destruction. He emphasized that the protection of cultural heritage and the historical sites of Gaza is critical not only for Palestinians but for the world’s shared cultural legacy.

“We need the international community to step in and hold Israel accountable for the destruction of our history,” Hayek concluded.