‘Zionist act of highest order’: Smotrich allocates NIS 113m. to develop West Bank heritage sites

A steering committee has approved an allocation of NIS 113 million for the development of over 70 heritage sites across the West Bank, an initiative proposed by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. This funding aims to enhance tourism by preserving sites, improving accessibility, conducting rescue excavations, and developing infrastructure. Smotrich stated, "This is a Zionist act of the highest order. A people without a past has no future," emphasizing the goal to strengthen Jewish heritage and connection to the Land of Israel. The West Bank contains over 2,600 archaeological and heritage sites, including significant Jewish, Christian, and Muslim locations. This follows a May government approval of a NIS 250 million plan for similar preservation efforts in the West Bank, Jordan Valley, and Judean Desert, which also includes constructing new heritage centers and upgrading infrastructure to deter looting and destruction of antiquities.