Lebanon: Israel Targeted Cultural Heritage

Lebanon's Culture Minister Ghassan Salame stated that Israel's operations against Hezbollah have caused significant damage to the country's cultural and historical heritage. Salame noted that despite the ceasefire, Israeli soldiers remain in the south, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the damage. Entire villages have been destroyed, and ancient cities such as Sur and Nabatiye have been heavily affected by airstrikes. Lebanon's cultural heritage encompasses not only Roman or Phoenician ruins but also historical buildings, archaeological sites, and culturally significant structures.The tension in southern Lebanon persists despite the framework agreement brokered by the US between Lebanon and Israel. The presence of Israeli troops and Hezbollah's objections to the agreement contribute to the fragility of the ceasefire. The conflict between Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel has sparked new debates about Lebanon's cultural heritage.