UNESCO has voiced concern about the safety of cultural landmarks in the Middle East following reports that Iran’s Golestan Palace sustained damage amid recent military strikes in Tehran, Euronews reported.
According to Iranian state media, debris and shockwaves from a U.S.-Israeli airstrike near Arg Square on Monday caused damage to parts of the historic palace complex, including windows, doors and decorative elements.
Golestan Palace, located in central Tehran, is one of the city’s oldest historic complexes. Originally established during the Qajar dynasty in the late 18th century, the site later evolved into a royal residence and the seat of government. The complex includes multiple palace buildings, several of which currently operate as museums.
In a statement, UNESCO highlighted that cultural landmarks are safeguarded under international law, including the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention, encouraging policymakers to uphold these protections during conflicts.
