Israel Plans to Destroy UNESCO Site in Beit Jala for Settlement

Aug 17, 2024, 09:40 PM

Israel is reportedly planning to destroy a Palestinian Christian village in Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank, to construct an illegal settlement. The village is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is situated in Jabal al-Makhrur, a part of Beit Jala, which is one of the last Christian strongholds in the region. The move has sparked outrage as it is perceived as an act of revenge against European countries that have recognized Palestine. The area is known for its natural beauty, including trails, fresh water springs, and apricot terraces. A Christian family in Bethlehem, whose land was annexed by Smotrich, is actively fighting to protect their land from annexation.