The head of the Israel Antiquities Authority on Sunday praised the government for its decision to approve the national heritage site project, saying that it presented a " fresh set of national priorities."

Shuka Dorfman added that "finally the proper weight is being given to the preservation of our national heritage and culture. The Land of Israel was not blessed with natural resources, yet it is second to none as a center and hub of the history of the entire world. We have the obligation - and the privilege – to preserve these sites, which allow those living today to touch the past.