Israel's archaeological initiative in Sebastia aims to highlight Jewish heritage and establish a national park, further straining relations with Palestinians who see it as an attempt to displace them. The site, home to ruins from various historical eras, represents a narrative of shared history, yet Israel's actions are interpreted as efforts to erase Palestinian connections to the land. High-ranking Israeli officials endorse these excavations, leading to considerable tension and conflicting perspectives on the significance of Sebastia's past and present.
Israeli politicians refer to Sebastia as Samaria and say it was the capital of the Biblical Kingdom of Israel nearly three millennia ago. However, the site includes ruins from various eras, highlighting the area's diverse history.
The Palestinian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities called the excavations preparation for Sebastia's annexation and isolation from its surroundings, showing deep concerns about erasing their historical ties.
Ultranationalist Israeli Minister of Heritage Amichai Eliyahu proclaimed the commencement of Israeli excavation at the site, emphasizing its focus on Jewish heritage, which Palestinians interpret as erasure of their connections.
For Palestinians, this project is a symbol of displacement, as they view the creation of a national park as Israeli attempts to annexe sites of significant historical value to them.
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