BEIRUT, July 8 (HS/RIA Novosti): Lebanon has submitted an urgent request to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to place five ancient fortresses in the country's south on the World Heritage List, citing growing threats to the historic sites from Israeli military strikes, Lebanese Culture Minister Ghassan Salameh told RIA Novosti.

We have submitted an urgent request to the World Heritage Committee, which is scheduled to meet on July 17 in South Korea, to add five Jabal Amel fortresses, Salameh said.

The minister said several of the historical sites have already suffered direct and indirect damage during the ongoing hostilities. According to him, the Shamaa mausoleum sustained significant damage, with three of its domes collapsing and a fourth at risk of collapse.

Salameh also expressed concern over claims by the Israeli military that tunnels were located beneath the historic Beaufort Castle. He said Lebanese authorities launched diplomatic and public information efforts to demonstrate that the tunnels referred to are situated more than 700 metres away from the medieval fortress and do not lie beneath the heritage site.

The five Jabal Amel fortresses are regarded as some of southern Lebanon's most important historical landmarks, representing centuries of architectural, cultural and military history. Lebanese authorities believe their inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage List would strengthen international efforts to preserve the monuments, attract technical expertise and financial assistance, and ensure their long-term protection.

The World Heritage Committee, which evaluates nominations for UNESCO's prestigious heritage list, is scheduled to convene in South Korea on July 17. Lebanon hopes the committee will consider the emergency request in light of the risks facing the sites.

Lebanon has repeatedly voiced concern over damage to its cultural heritage amid the continuing conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border. Cross-border hostilities have intensified since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, with frequent exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah affecting several towns and archaeological sites in southern Lebanon.

Beirut has urged the international community and UNESCO to help safeguard its cultural heritage, warning that continued military activity threatens monuments that form an integral part of the country's historical identity and the wider cultural legacy of the region.

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar