On Wednesday, the Israeli government approved a 250 million NIS plan aimed at preserving and developing heritage and antiquities sites across the West Bank, Jordan Valley, and Judean Desert, in anticipation of the Six-Day War anniversary in June. The initiative, announced by multiple ministries including the Prime Minister's Office and the Heritage Ministry, seeks to establish new heritage centers that will serve as educational and research facilities, enhancing the connection of the Israeli public to the Jewish heritage in the region. Additionally, the plan includes upgrading existing infrastructure to promote these sites as major tourist destinations, while intensifying measures to prevent looting and destruction of antiquities.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted the historical significance of these sites, asserting that they embody thousands of years of Jewish history. This plan coincides with the approval of over 100 new settlements in the West Bank, as Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasized the importance of reinforcing Jewish heritage. The government’s actions come amid the recent passage of the controversial 'Judea and Samaria Heritage Authority' bill, which aims to manage and protect antiquities but has faced criticism for potentially annexing the region and affecting Palestinian governance.