GAZA: The Israeli army has reportedly destroyed and vandalized 206 priceless archaeological and heritage sites in the Gaza Strip, as part of its ongoing military operations, a Palestinian official revealed on Tuesday. This alarming development has further fueled tensions and international criticism amid the protracted conflict. According to Anadolu Agency, Ismail Thawabteh, head of Gaza's Government Media Office, highlighted the extensive damage inflicted on Palestinian archaeological and heritage locations. Thawabteh accused the Israeli occupation army of systematically targeting these sites, resulting in their destruction, vandalism, looting, and theft. Among the affected sites are notable historical landmarks such as the Great Omari Mosque, Byzantine Church in Jabalia, and the Shrine of Al-Khadir in Deir al-Balah. Thawabteh emphasized that these actions reflect a deliberate strategy to erase Palestinian identity and cultural heritage. The damaged sites span various historical periods, including the Phoen ician and Roman eras, and some date as far back as 800 BC. He condemned the destruction as an assault on the Palestinian people, their history, and culture, accusing Israel of attempting to consolidate its occupation by erasing cultural links to the land. The situation in Gaza has intensified since Israel launched its military campaign following a Hamas attack in October 2023. Official figures indicate that over 44,400 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have been killed, and more than 105,000 have been injured. The international community has widely condemned these actions, describing them as attempts to obliterate the Palestinian population. In response to the escalating crisis, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), further intensifying global scrutiny and condemnation of its actions in Gaza.