U.S. and Palestinian officials convened at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Bethlehem on January 5, marking a significant event in cultural repatriation history. This occasion marked the first instance of a U.S. repatriation of a rare cultural artifact to the Palestinian Authority.
The U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) handed over an Iron-age cosmetic spoon, dating back nearly 3,000 years, during this ceremony. The artifact's return highlights the mutual respect for cultural heritage shared between the United States and Palestine.
Present at the event were several dignitaries including Palestinian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Rula Maayah, Chief of the U.S. Office of Palestinian Affairs George Noll, Department of Homeland Security Attaché Donald Mania, and New York Assistant District Attorney Col. Matthew Bogdanos.
Minister Maayah emphasized the importance of such artifacts being returned to their original locations, noting that "the artifact is important as it acquires its real scientific and archaeological value in its authentic location." She mentioned that according to investigations conducted by U.S. authorities, "the artifact was stolen from Khirbet al-Koum area in Hebron."
George Noll remarked on this occasion as a "historic moment between the American and Palestinian people," demonstrating belief in cultural exchanges' power to build mutual understanding.
Ivan J. Arvelo from HSI highlighted antiquities trafficking as a lucrative yet damaging business while expressing honor at participating in this repatriation event alongside partners like Regional Attaché Jeff Brannigan who stated HSI's commitment to protecting cultural heritages globally.
New York District Attorney Alvin Bragg praised his team for their efforts in recovering looted objects saying it is "impossible to put a value on" these culturally significant items.
Recovered by DHS-HSI among other looted objects from Middle Eastern countries along with Greece and Italy; many have been similarly returned following prosecutions led by New York District Attorney’s office throughout recent ceremonies this year.