Israel Moves to Seize Ancient West Bank Site, Sparking "Land Grab" Claims
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Residents of Sebastia accuse Israel of using a heritage project as a pretext to seize land and expand Jewish settlements.
The historic site contains Byzantine, Roman, and ancient Israelite ruins. It sits in the hills of the occupied West Bank.
The local Palestinian community is alarmed by Israel's plan to take control of the area. They call it a violation of their history and a massive land grab.
The Israeli government states the project is for archaeological protection and tourism development. Palestinians say it will cut them off from their agricultural land and heritage.