The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has announced enhanced temporary protection for 34 heritage sites in Lebanon, which are currently threatened by Israeli military actions. This decision aims to provide these sites with a higher level of legal immunity against attacks and military use, as stated in a recent announcement by UNESCO. The sites include significant locations such as the Roman ruins in Baalbek and Tyre, both of which have faced recent Israeli strikes.
UNESCO emphasized that any failure to comply with these protective measures would be considered a serious violation of the 1954 Hague Convention, which safeguards cultural property during armed conflicts. The convention asserts that damage to cultural heritage is a loss for all of humanity, regardless of its origins.
This move follows a public appeal from hundreds of cultural figures, including archaeologists and academics, urging UNESCO to activate its enhanced protection mechanisms. In response, UNESCO has committed to providing technical and financial assistance to Baalbek and Tyre to bolster their legal protections and improve risk management practices.
The recent Israeli military actions have raised significant concerns regarding the preservation of Lebanon's rich cultural heritage, with reports documenting damage to various archaeological sites across the country, including Beirut, Sidon, and the Bekaa Valley. UNESCO's intervention is seen as a crucial step in safeguarding these invaluable cultural assets.
