Netanyahu Sparks Controversy with Inclusion of Bethlehem, Hebron Sites on Heritage List

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s list of 150 “heritage sites” has predictably sparked political controversy with the inclusion of holy places in Hebron and Bethlehem, both located in areas Israel acquired in the 1967 war and which are claimed by the Palestinians. At a cabinet session, Netanyahu said Rachel’s Tomb in Bethlehem and the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron will be included on the list described by a government spokesman as “sites that are of great importance to the Jewish people.” Palestinian government spokesman Ghassan Khatib called the idea “dangerous,” saying “it will add to the religious component of the conflict in a way that might bring dangerous consequences.” On Sunday, Israeli troops were sent into the Palestinian controlled town of Jericho to remove a group of 50 right wing Jews who decided to visit an ancient synagogue there.