Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism Amichai Chikli sharply criticized UNESCO following the organization’s decision to recognize the Sebastia heritage site as a Palestinian heritage site.
Speaking during a tour of the site, Chikli emphasized the importance his ministry places on strengthening Israel’s presence at heritage sites throughout Samaria, making them accessible to the public and allocating dedicated funding for their preservation and development.
To highlight the Jewish people’s historic connection to the site, Chikli read a passage from the First Book of Kings (Chapter 16, verses 23-24), "In the thirty-first year of King Asa of Judah, Omri became king over Israel-for twelve years. He reigned in Tirzah six years. Then he bought the hill of Samaria from Shemer for two talents of silver; he built [a town] on the hill and named the town that he built Samaria, after Shemer, the owner of the hill," recounting the history of Samaria, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Israel.
The minister also called on Israelis to visit the region’s historic sites and see firsthand their significance and connection to Jewish history.
“Defining the ancient capital of Israel as a Palestinian heritage site is an insult to anyone's intelligence," Chikli said. “We will continue to strengthen our presence throughout Samaria, including at heritage sites.
“We in the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs have had the privilege of providing significant resources for the development of the heritage site at Sebastia, the ancient city of Samaria. We will continue to invest in and build the Land, restore it from its ruins, and preserve and develop its heritage for future generations."