UNESCO Adds Prehistoric Palestinian Site and Ancient Jericho Ruins to World Heritage List, Sparking Controversy
The United Nations World Heritage Committee has voted to list the prehistoric ruins near the ancient city of Jericho in the occupied West Bank as a World Heritage Site in Palestine. The site, known as Tell es-Sultan, contains evidence of one of humanity's first-known villages and an important Bronze-Age town. Israel has criticized the decision, calling it a "cynical ploy," while the Palestinian Authority welcomed the designation, stating that it testifies to the authenticity and history of the Palestinian people.