Threat to Cultural Heritage: Israeli Strikes Near Ancient Ruins Raise Archaeological Concerns

As Israel intensifies its military campaign against Hezbollah, air strikes near ancient Roman ruins in Lebanon, including Baalbek, have raised concerns among archaeologists about the irreplaceable cultural heritage at risk, stressing the importance of preservation amidst warfare.

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon has put the remarkable Roman temples at Baalbek and other ancient sites at risk, as Israeli air strikes flow ever closer to these UNESCO-designated gems. Following a recent attack on a car park nearby, archaeologists have voiced their alarm over the potential for irreparable damage to these historical landmarks, which have stood for over 2,000 years.

Graham Philip, an archaeology professor at Durham University, lamented the irreplaceable nature of Baalbek, stating, "You couldn't replace it if someone bombed it. It would be a huge loss. It would be a crime." The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), while claiming military necessity, have predominantly focused their strikes on southern Lebanon and the eastern Bekaa Valley since the escalation of violence.

Although the IDF asserts that it strictly targets military facilities, the proximity of these strikes to Baalbek and Tyre, known for their ancient Roman architecture, has raised eyebrows among local experts. Archaeologist Joanne Farchakh Bajjaly expressed her concern that according to various accounts, no Hezbollah facilities exist near Baalbek. Likewise, the IDF has maintained that risk assessments are inherent in their military planning, noting that they are conscious of sensitive sites, including important cultural heritage landmarks, during planning and execution of strikes.

Furthermore, Lebanese civilians have reportedly sought refuge among the ancient ruins, believing these sites would remain safe from bombardment due to their cultural significance. It has prompted local authorities to caution against this misplaced belief, with Farchakh Bajjaly remarking that, "The site is not a shelter."

Despite the current hostilities, Israeli archaeologist Erez Ben-Yosef emphasized that efforts are made to minimize damage to culture during wartime. He highlighted the involvement of numerous archaeologists in the military striving to protect Lebanon’s archaeological treasures.

The significance of these ancient sites is not solely academic; as Philip pointed out, they represent an integral part of national identity. He draws parallels to monumental sites in Britain, such as the Tower of London or Stonehenge: "Imagine how people would feel if those were destroyed." Cultural heritage preservation advocates, both locally and globally, remain vigilant, seeking to safeguard Lebanon’s invaluable historical assets during turbulent times.