International Scholars Condemn Damage to Iran's Cultural Heritage in Military Strikes

A coalition of international researchers and heritage specialists has issued a strong condemnation of the damage inflicted on Iran's cultural heritage during recent military strikes. The group warns that the destruction threatens not only historical sites but also global scientific research and humanity's collective memory.

The scholars' statement asserts that intense bombardments since February 28, 2026, have caused considerable damage to cultural sites, despite a fragile ceasefire announced on April 7-8. They express solidarity with the Iranian people, who they say will bear the long-term consequences of the conflict.

The statement references repeated warnings issued in March by UNESCO about risks to Iran's heritage, echoing concerns from other international bodies including Europa Nostra, the International Council of Museums (ICOM), the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and the US Committee of the Blue Shield.

According to the scholars, more than 120 heritage sites have been affected to date. Among the damaged locations are major UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Golestan Palace in Tehran and Naqsh-e Jahan Square and Chehel Sotun Palace in Isfahan.

While some destruction may be attributed to collateral damage, the researchers state that other strikes appear to have deliberately targeted cultural institutions and universities in Tehran and Isfahan. This raises concerns about attempts to erase historical records and undermine academic infrastructure.

The statement specifically cites a March 8 strike in Khorramabad, Lorestan province, which destroyed offices of the Iranian Cultural Heritage Organization. The attack injured staff and left archaeological archives and scientific documentation at risk. Nearby landmarks, including the historic Falak-ol-Aflak Citadel and a museum, were also damaged.

"These buildings had been identified and their coordinates transmitted to the belligerents by UNESCO to prevent such attacks," the statement notes.

The signatories emphasize that Iran's cultural heritage spans tens of thousands of sites, including 29 on UNESCO's World Heritage list and approximately 40,000 registered nationally. They highlight Iran's central place in world history, with archaeological evidence dating back over 300,000 years and major contributions to early agriculture, writing systems, and urban development.

The loss of sites, archives, and collections would have "irreparable" consequences for studying ancient, medieval, and modern societies worldwide. The scholars also warn of broader environmental damage from the conflict across Iran's diverse landscapes—from mountains to deserts—which offer key insights into how past societies adapted to climate change.

The statement calls for increased international coordination to monitor damage through initiatives like an atlas project by Iranian archaeology groups but notes these efforts are hampered by communication disruptions within Iran.

Researchers urge governments and academic institutions worldwide to support protection efforts through expanded funding for digitization projects while creating opportunities for Iranian scholars abroad. "Research that is obstructed is also research in danger," they assert.

Beyond immediate physical damage attacks on cultural heritage contribute significantly toward eroding shared historical memory while deepening global divisions accordingto these experts: "Such destruction contributes toward dehumanizing societiesby obliterating their long rich interconnected histories."