(DDM) – Iran has accused the United States and Israel of damaging at least 120 culturally significant sites during ongoing military strikes linked to the current conflict.
The claim was made by Ahmad Alavi, head of the Tehran City Council’s heritage committee, who said the affected locations include museums, historic buildings, and other cultural landmarks.
According to Alavi, the sites were spread across multiple provinces and suffered varying degrees of structural damage.
He stated that many of the affected facilities hold historical and cultural value, representing important aspects of Iran’s heritage.
The allegations come amid escalating tensions in the region following weeks of military exchanges.
Iranian officials argue that the targeting of such sites raises serious concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage during armed conflicts.
They also suggested that the damage could have long-term implications for tourism and historical preservation in the country.
However, there has been no immediate independent verification of the number of sites reportedly affected.
Authorities in the United States and Israel have not officially responded to the specific claims regarding cultural damage.
International law generally prohibits deliberate attacks on cultural and historical sites during armed conflicts.
Organisations such as UNESCO have previously emphasised the need to protect heritage locations from destruction in war zones.
Analysts say that damage to cultural infrastructure often carries symbolic and psychological consequences beyond physical loss.
The reported destruction may also complicate future reconstruction efforts and heritage conservation initiatives.
Observers note that cultural sites are often vulnerable during conflicts due to their visibility and historical significance.
The latest claims add another dimension to the ongoing conflict, which has already affected infrastructure and civilian areas.
Global attention is increasingly focused on the humanitarian and cultural impact of the war.
Experts warn that continued escalation could lead to further losses, including irreplaceable historical artifacts.
The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions continue.
Iranian authorities are expected to conduct further assessments to determine the full extent of the damage.
The development underscores the broader consequences of armed conflict on cultural identity and historical legacy.
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