Airstrikes recently caused extensive damage to Iranian heritage sites, officials reported on Saturday. The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts said the United States and Israel conducted the attacks on museums, monuments, and historic buildings across multiple provinces. The ministry emphasized that Iranian heritage sites represent national identity and the shared legacy of humanity.
Officials reported that Tehran province suffered the most damage. Nineteen cultural landmarks sustained structural harm, including Golestan Palace, the historical bazaar of Tehran, Kakh-e Marmar, the former Senate building, and Sepahsalar Mosque. Several historic administrative and residential buildings also experienced significant damage.
In western Iran, Kordestan province recorded damage to twelve historical sites. Central Iran also faced destruction as attackers struck the UNESCO-listed Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan and its surrounding Safavid-era monuments. The ministry highlighted that this square represents one of the nation’s most significant cultural and architectural sites.
Authorities also reported damage in Lorestan and Kermanshah provinces. Attackers struck several historic houses in the ancient port of Siraf in Bushehr province. Additionally, attackers damaged an archaeology museum in Ilam province. Officials are still assessing the full extent of the destruction.
The ministry submitted formal protests to international organizations, including UNESCO, ICOMOS, and the United Nations. Officials said they are pursuing diplomatic and legal measures to respond to the attacks. They plan to launch an emergency restoration and conservation program for all affected Iranian heritage sites after hostilities end.
Experts in cultural preservation warned that the destruction could reduce tourism and hinder scholarship. They emphasized that Iranian heritage sites play a critical role in understanding national history and global culture. International support and awareness remain crucial to protecting these landmarks in the future.
The ministry called on scholars, artists, and cultural organizations worldwide to condemn the attacks. Authorities urged international actors to support efforts to safeguard Iranian heritage sites, stressing that these landmarks reflect human civilization as a whole. Looking ahead, Iran will prioritize restoration and implement protective measures to prevent further damage.
Officials confirmed that monitoring and safeguarding cultural sites will guide future operations. Despite ongoing challenges, Iran remains committed to preserving its rich historical and cultural legacy. Iranian heritage sites remain at the center of national and international attention, illustrating the serious impact of military conflict on cultural preservation.