Beirut: The Ministry of Culture welcomed, in a statement, the decision by UNESCO's World Heritage Committee to inscribe the Ancient City of Tyre on the List of World Heritage in Danger.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Minister of Culture, Dr. Ghassan Salam©, highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding cultural heritage, emphasizing that historic sites like Tyre are integral to both Lebanon's and humanity's shared history. The Ministry's statement further explained that the Ancient City of Tyre was placed under the Enhanced Protection regime in 2025, acknowledging its significance and the need for stronger protective measures during conflicts.
Inscribed on the World Heritage List since 1984, the Ancient City of Tyre is recognized as a key archaeological site in the Mediterranean. The recent decision by the World Heritage Committee underscores the challenges the site faces post-conflict and aims to enhance the international framework for its protection and rehabilitation.
The inclusion of Tyre on the List of World Heritage in Danger is expected to attract international technical expertise and financial support to aid Lebanon in preserving this cultural heritage. The Ministry expressed gratitude to the World Heritage Committee, UNESCO, ICOMOS, and other experts and partners for their contributions. It also reaffirmed its commitment to working with UNESCO and partners to assess damage, enhance protection, and plan conservation efforts to ensure the long-term preservation of the site.