56 Historical and Cultural Sites Damaged in U.S. and Israeli Attacks in Iran
Lifeinmena-,Tehran — Iran has alleged that recent airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel have caused significant damage to at least 56 historical and cultural sites across the country, including museums, heritage buildings, and ancient landmarks. Iranian officials say the strikes have raised serious concerns about the protection of cultural heritage during armed conflict.
56 Historical and Cultural Sites Damaged in U.S. and Israeli Attacks in Iran
According to the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), authorities have conducted preliminary assessments showing that dozens of culturally significant locations were affected in different provinces. Officials reported that 19 sites in Tehran province alone sustained varying degrees of damage following the attacks.
Among the most prominent locations reportedly affected are the historic Gorleston Palace—a UNESCO-listed royal complex dating back to the Qajar dynasty—and the centuries-old Grand Bazaar of Tehran, one of the largest and most important traditional markets in the Middle East. Both sites are considered key symbols of Iran’s architectural heritage and cultural identity.
Iranian authorities say the damage ranges from structural impacts to surrounding areas and historical sections within the sites. Cultural heritage experts in Iran are currently assessing the full scale of the destruction, while restoration teams are being mobilized to prevent further deterioration.
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi condemned the attacks, describing them as a “clear violation of international law” and accusing Washington and Tel Aviv of deliberately targeting areas close to historically significant sites. He stated that Iran is preparing to raise the issue in international forums and may pursue legal action regarding what it calls the destruction of protected cultural heritage.
Under international humanitarian law, cultural and historical sites are generally protected during armed conflicts unless they are being used for military purposes. Iranian officials argue that the affected locations were purely civilian cultural landmarks.
The United Nations cultural body UNESCO has also expressed concern over the reported damage. In a statement, the organization stressed the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage during conflicts and called for respect for international conventions designed to protect historic monuments, museums, and archaeological sites.
Cultural experts warn that damage to historic structures can have long-term consequences for preservation efforts, particularly when centuries-old buildings are affected by blasts or shockwaves. Many of Iran’s historical sites are constructed using traditional materials and techniques that can be difficult to restore after severe damage.
Iran is home to one of the world’s richest cultural heritages, with numerous UNESCO-listed sites reflecting thousands of years of civilization, architecture, and trade history. The reported damage has therefore sparked concern among historians, conservationists, and international organizations monitoring the protection of global heritage.
Authorities in Tehran say detailed investigations are continuing and that a comprehensive report on the affected cultural sites will be released once assessments across the country are completed.
