Netanyahu said to halt progress of controversial West Bank and Gaza antiquities bill

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has paused a controversial bill that would have extended direct Israeli civilian control over antiquities in the West Bank and Gaza. The legislation, which sought to create a "Judea, Samaria and Gaza Heritage Authority" under the Heritage Ministry, was openly promoted by its sponsors as a move toward annexation.

The Knesset Education, Culture and Sports Committee had scheduled a vote on amendments to the bill, but the meeting was abruptly canceled. While a new date has not been set, the legislative process is on hold. This pause follows a request from Netanyahu for the Cabinet Secretary to examine the bill and present government conclusions.

The bill faced significant opposition. The Israel Defense Forces officially stated their disapproval, and the committee's legal adviser warned that its passage could violate Israel's international commitments and amount to "creeping annexation." The vast majority of archaeologists also expressed concerns, arguing that the proposed system would not adequately protect antiquities from looting and vandalism. Instead, they fear it would further expose Israeli academics to boycotts and reduced international funding.

Sponsors of the bill, MK Zvi Sukkot and Amit Halevi, had hoped to advance it quickly. However, Sukkot indicated a willingness to abide by Netanyahu's request for a delay. The controversy highlights the complex and sensitive nature of managing cultural heritage in disputed territories and the differing views on its political implications.

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The Israel Defense Forces has officially stated its opposition to the proposal, and the committee’s legal adviser warned that if passed into law, it would violate Israel’s international commitments and reinforce claims of “creeping annexation.”