Israel Plans to Destroy UNESCO Site in Bethlehem for Settlement

Aug 19, 2024, 12:29 AM

Israel is reportedly planning to destroy a Palestinian Christian village in Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank, to establish an illegal settlement. The village, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is facing threats of annexation as part of what Israel claims is retaliation against European countries recognizing Palestine. The area, known for its natural beauty, including trails, fresh water springs, and apricot terraces, is home to a Christian family battling to protect their land annexed by Smotrich. On July 31, Israeli settlers, accompanied by Israeli soldiers, raided the Kisiya family’s land in Al-Makhrour, forcibly evicting the Palestinian Christians, who are now fighting back against the eviction. The village is also known as Beit Jala.