Well too be fair, Lawrence of Arabia tapped into existing resentment up forment his revolt
There's always been differing interests in the middle east, whether it's religious, ethnic or something else. To say otherwise takes away from the agency of the people living there
It goes to hope far you consider consent. The tombs of the people that you are investigating probably wouldn't have consented to it, but the people and their families have long since disappeared, with even the culture attached to it evolving to the point of non recognition, therefore it's okay.