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Israel funds Sebastia park, defies UNESCO danger listing

8/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Israel allocated 113 million shekels (£27.8 m) and passed a heritage-ministry oversight bill in May, granting land-seizure powers, now on hold.
Israel plans to expropriate about 450 acres around Sebastia for a “Samaria” park and relocate the entrance away from the village.
UNESCO listed Sebastia as a World Heritage site in danger over the park plan, while Gideon Saar said no UN vote can change history, rejecting UNESCO concerns.

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Story summary

Israel allocated 113 million shekels (£27.8 m) and passed a heritage-ministry oversight bill in May, granting land-seizure powers, now on hold.
Israel plans to expropriate about 450 acres around Sebastia for a “Samaria” park and relocate the entrance away from the village.
UNESCO listed Sebastia as a World Heritage site in danger over the park plan, while Gideon Saar said no UN vote can change history, rejecting UNESCO concerns.