Paris: The Minister of Culture handed the Director-General of UNESCO a written memorandum to protect archaeological sites in Lebanon. The Director-General of UNESCO, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, received the Minister of Culture, Dr. Ghassan Salameh, at his office in Paris during an urgent meeting. During the meeting, Minister Salameh presented a memorandum detailing the significant threats to archaeological sites in Lebanon due to Israeli attacks.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Minister Salameh sought UNESCO's support to safeguard these sites in line with the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict. Following the meeting, UNESCO issued a statement addressing the situation.

"In light of the recent escalation of hostilities in Lebanon, UNESCO expresses its deep concern regarding the confirmed damage to Chamaa Castle, as well as reports of attacks targeting the surroundings of Beaufort Castle, both of which are temporarily listed under enhanced protection within the framework of the 1954 Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict," the statement read.

UNESCO also highlighted concerns over the condition of the city of Tyre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is under enhanced protection. The recent developments in the region may expose the site to further harm and potential looting.

The organization strongly condemned unlawful attacks against cultural property, emphasizing that sites under 'enhanced protection' are entitled to the highest level of legal protection against such attacks and military use. Damage to these sites not only affects cultural heritage but also deprives communities of essential cultural access and shared spaces important for recovery and social cohesion.

UNESCO, along with its Regional Office in Beirut, will continue collaborating with Lebanese authorities to assess the impact on cultural institutions and to bolster urgent protection measures within its mandate.