Controversial Bill to Establish West Bank Heritage Authority Advances in Knesset

On February 6, 2026, the Knesset Education, Culture and Sports Committee approved a contentious bill aimed at creating a West Bank Heritage Authority. This authority would oversee antiquities and heritage sites in the West Bank, with a proposed budget of NIS 30 million (approximately $9.7 million). The bill passed with a vote of seven in favor and five against, but it still requires three readings in the Knesset plenum to become law. The Justice Ministry has expressed concerns that the bill contradicts Israel's policies regarding the West Bank and raises international sensitivities.

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The West Bank Heritage Authority would be responsible for various activities related to heritage, including the preservation, restoration, and management of archaeological sites. MK Zvi Sukkot, chairperson of the committee, emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “Jewish history is found less on Dizengoff and more in Shiloh,” and highlighted the ongoing destruction of Jewish antiquities in the region.

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Critics of the bill have raised significant concerns. MK Gilad Kariv described it as part of "creeping annexation," arguing that it deviates from established principles of territorial sovereignty. The Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) also opposed the bill, asserting that it contradicts the current management of archaeological sites, which are often operated by its officers. Furthermore, Palestinian officials have accused Israel of systematic looting of Palestinian heritage sites, exacerbating tensions surrounding the proposed legislation.

Israel advances bill for West Bank heritage authority

Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu defended the bill, framing it as a necessary step toward applying full sovereignty over Judea and Samaria. He argued that the legislation is crucial for protecting both Jewish and Christian heritage sites, which he claims are under threat. Eliyahu also urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the Palestinian Authority's recent submission of 14 heritage sites to UNESCO, framing it as a strategic move to undermine Israeli claims to these sites.

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There are conflicting perspectives on the implications of the proposed bill. While proponents argue it will protect Jewish heritage, critics warn it may lead to increased tensions and further marginalization of Palestinian heritage. The INPA's concerns about management authority and the Palestinian Authority's claims of looting highlight the complexities surrounding the issue.

Israel advances bill for West Bank heritage authority

The bill will undergo further scrutiny as it progresses through the Knesset. The Justice Ministry's request for additional review indicates that the legislative process may face delays. The ongoing debate surrounding the bill reflects broader tensions regarding heritage, sovereignty, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, suggesting that the implications of this legislation will resonate beyond the Knesset floor.

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• “This is one of the laws that is most important for me to advance here,” — MK Zvi Sukkot, Chairperson of the Knesset Education, Culture and Sports Committee

Israel advances bill for West Bank heritage authority

• “It is time to take responsibility and stop the ongoing looting of our cultural treasures and the destruction of the heritage sites of the Jewish people,” — MK Amit Halevi, Likud

Israel advances bill for West Bank heritage authority

• “This legislation is not worthy in my view, first and foremost because it is part of creeping annexation,” — MK Gilad Kariv

Israel advances bill for West Bank heritage authority

• “ “Failure to respond or a partial response will be perceived internationally as silent acquiescence.” — Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu

Israel advances bill for West Bank heritage authority