UNESCO's World Heritage Committee has made a bold move, adding the ancient city of Sebastia in the occupied West Bank and five historic castles in Lebanon to its emergency list. The decision comes despite strong objections from Israel, which claims that Sebastia is part of its own heritage and that the Lebanese castles are not significant enough to warrant protection. The emergency listing is seen as a major blow to Israel's efforts to erase the Palestinian presence in Sebastia, which is considered a sacred site by Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike. The five Lebanese castles, meanwhile, are a testament to the country's rich medieval history and are now poised to receive international recognition and protection.
Sebastia in the occupied West Bank and five Lebanese castles get emergency listing despite Israeli objections.
