The Palestinian Ministry of Culture said today, Thursday, April 18, 2024, that the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip led to the complete and partial destruction of about 32 cultural institutions.
On the occasion of World Heritage Day, the culture added that the aggression also led to the destruction of 12 museums, the destruction of approximately 2,100 old dresses and pieces of embroidery from collectibles in museums or within personal collections, and the demolition of about 195 historical buildings, most of which are located in Gaza City, including some that are used as centers. Cultural and community institutions, in addition to the damage to 9 heritage sites, and 10 historical mosques and churches that form part of the sector’s memory.
She called on international organizations to protect the Palestinian cultural heritage in light of the crimes committed by the occupying army, and to implement legal mechanisms in order to oblige the occupying state to the terms of the agreements related to the protection of cultural and natural heritage.
She pointed out that targeting cultural centers is a shameful violation of international humanitarian law, especially the International Convention to Prevent Genocide and Hold Its Perpetrators Accountable.
The Ministry renewed its call to UNESCO and other relevant organizations to form an international committee to uncover the legal and humanitarian violations that have affected Palestinian cultural heritage, as it is part of human heritage, and its destruction and loss is a loss to all of humanity.
