Factors of Threats to Archaeological Sites in the West Bank (An analytical Study on the Separation Wall)

The destruction of archaeological sites lead to a big loss at the local and regional levels, and any interruption to the past will have a negative impact on the present and the future. The preservation and protection of archaeological sites consists an economic, cultural and heritage impact for the nations. This thesis aims mainly to review the factors threatening the destruction of archaeological sites with an attempt to find the methods that reduce the threat and preserve what is left of the Palestinian remains. In addition, it includes an analytical study of the direct and indirect of the separation wall on the archaeological sites in the West Bank. The methodology of the thesis is based on the descriptive and analytical approaches, through the study and analysis of maps, photographs, charts and data in the areas where the separation wall is passing through and the impact of this wall on archaeological sites in these areas based on the information available to the relevant sources, as well as the results of the survey and field visits done by the researcher. The findings suggest that the actions by the Israeli authorities are considered the most important factors threatening the destruction of archaeological sites in the West Bank, and the construction of the separation wall was the cause of the destruction and the removal of a large number of these sites. Also, the results of the study showed that building activities consist another cause of the disappearance of many archaeological sites, in addition to the great damage caused by illegal excavation works carried out by the robbers. Moreover, the results of the study have indicated the lack of archaeological awareness among most of the Palestinian citizens. The study recommended the need for intensified efforts by concerned Palestinian authorities and institutions, especially the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, to face the wall and its negative effects on archaeological sites on one hand and to put the protection and preservation of archaeological sites within their priorities on the other hand, because of the political, economic, and cultural importance of these sites, which affect the identity of the Palestinians and their right in their own land. The study also recommended the need to focus on the role of the media and public awareness, as well as the importance of developing curricula that have an active role in building a generation aware of the importance of archaeological sites and their preservation. Finally, the study emphasized the significance of providing all the legal, scientific, technical and administrative measures and means that help in the protection of archaeological sites and preserve them.