Beirut: The Ministry of Culture's General Directorate of Antiquities has lodged an urgent complaint with UNESCO, seeking immediate intervention to safeguard the archaeological site of Chamaa Castle located in southern Lebanon. This action comes in response to reports that the site is under threat from Israeli forces, which have allegedly been causing damage to the castle. The site was placed on the Enhanced Protection List in 2024 under Protocol II of the 1954 Hague Convention.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Chamaa Castle had previously been attacked by the Israeli army in 2024, prompting heightened concerns about its preservation. The Ministry has categorically denied circulating reports of damages at the Tyre site, labeling such news as false.
The Ministry of Culture has urged all parties and media outlets to verify information before dissemination, emphasizing the importance of relying on officially approved sources to maintain credibility and objectivity in news reporting.