**Israel Allocates $37 Million for Control of Historical Sites in Occupied West Bank**
*Published on August 5, 2026*
In a significant move regarding the management of historical sites in the occupied West Bank, Israeli Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich announced an allocation of 113 million shekels (approximately $37 million) aimed at taking control of more than 70 archaeological sites. This decision was confirmed by a government steering committee on Tuesday.
The recent funding initiative builds upon a previous plan approved in May, which allocated 250 million shekels (around $83 million) for the purpose of claiming archaeological sites across the West Bank and the Jordan Valley. The Settlements Ministry is set to receive a total of 157 million shekels ($52 million) in direct funding, supplemented by an additional 142 million shekels ($47 million) in commitment authorizations.
On the same day, the Knesset’s Finance Committee also approved nearly 300 million shekels (about $99 million) in funding and commitments directed towards the Settlements Ministry. Smotrich characterized this funding as a "Zionist act of the highest order," asserting that a people without a past cannot envision a future. He outlined plans for the establishment of new visitor centers and research facilities at these historical sites.
The Israeli government designates these landmarks as Jewish heritage locations, aiming to extend state control over Palestinian property and territory. The occupied West Bank is rich in archaeological and heritage sites, many of which have historical significance dating back centuries. While specific sites were not listed by Smotrich, reports from Palestinian media suggest that the plans may include Solomon’s Pools near Bethlehem, a site that Smotrich has previously expressed interest in controlling.
Since 2022, the Israeli government has approved the establishment of approximately 104 settlements and 160 outposts in the occupied West Bank. These settlements are widely regarded as illegal under international law, a point that has been a focal issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The allocation of funds for settlement expansion has continued despite a backdrop of escalating violence. Reports indicate that there have been over 11,000 settler and military attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank this year alone. This ongoing violence has raised concerns among human rights organizations and the international community regarding the impact on Palestinian communities and the broader implications for peace in the region.
As the situation develops, the international response to Israel's actions in the West Bank remains a critical area of focus, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions and the complex historical context surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.