Jerusalem, 25 May, 2026 (TPS-IL) — A key Knesset committee postponed deliberations Monday on legislation extending Israeli authority over antiquities in Judea, Samaria and Gaza, delaying its advance to final parliamentary votes. The Education, Culture and Sports Committee had been Expected to complete work on the bill before resuming discussions Tuesday.
The legislation would transfer authority over archaeological activity from the Defense Ministry’s Civil Administration to a new civilian body called the “Judea and Samaria Heritage Authority.”
Proponents argue that the Civil Administration is not equipped to deal with the challenges of preserving and excavating sites. Critics warn the move is a step toward annexation and may get all Israeli archaeology banned from international cooperation.