Story perspectives

Antiquities Thieves Caught Amid Missile Threats in Israel

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) received a tip-off about illegal excavation, leading to the apprehension of two antiquities thieves at the Horvat Hermesh site in northern Israel.
During transport to the police station, law enforcement took shelter due to ongoing missile threats.
In a separate incident, two residents of Fureidis were arrested for using metal detectors at Horvat Hadarim site.
IAA officials stressed protecting Israel's cultural heritage even during conflicts.

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Story summary

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) received a tip-off about illegal excavation, leading to the apprehension of two antiquities thieves at the Horvat Hermesh site in northern Israel.
During transport to the police station, law enforcement took shelter due to ongoing missile threats.
In a separate incident, two residents of Fureidis were arrested for using metal detectors at Horvat Hadarim site.
IAA officials stressed protecting Israel's cultural heritage even during conflicts.