A group of Jericho activists expressed concern Friday for the future of the Hasmonean Palaces (Armonot Hachashmonaim) archaeological site in the Jericho area after they were chased from the scene Thursday by Israeli soldiers. The group went to get a first-hand look at the site after reports of it being damaged by Arabs who are building in the area.
The activists fear that urban development will result in the disappearance of the sight in the near future. They called on the Israel Defense Forces to open the area to Israeli tourists as a way to protect the site, which constitutes significant remains from the Second Temple period.