The demand for antiquities is the cause of actual damage inflicted on antiquity sites. The IAA is therefore mandated to safeguard antiquity sites and prevent robbery. This is affected either via the courts, or by the IAA robbery prevention unit. The unit's inspectors, working throughout the country, are authorized to search and detain suspects. The unit inspects and supervises over 100 licensed antiquity dealers in Israel.
Accredited institutions refrain from purchase of items of questionable, or illegal origin.
The IAA therefore strives to lend exhibitions or specific items to major institutions throughout the world. Archaeological objects from the collections of the State of Israel are on loan to about 180 museums and exhibits in Israel. An excavation license is issued to a qualified, experienced archaeologist working on behalf of a recognized academic or research institute that has guaranteed its scientific, financial and administrative support for the excavation. An excavation commences with the actual dig on the site, continues with scientific, documented study of the finds and data, and concludes only after the publication of a suitable scientific report. Every antiquity site in Israel is protected by law.