In light of the current events in Iran, the Societas Iranologica Europaea (SIE) wishes to express its deep concern and its solidarity with all those affected by the ongoing violence.
In view of reported damage to cultural and historical sites across the country, the SIE recalls that the safeguarding of cultural heritage in times of armed conflict is governed by international legal instruments, notably the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention. Iran is home to one of the world’s oldest and most significant civilisations, whose cultural legacy constitutes an irreplaceable part of humanity’s shared heritage. Reports concerning the historic cities of Isfahan, Tabriz, and Shiraz are especially alarming. The SIE therefore underscores the importance of protecting cultural heritage and calls for the prompt and effective implementation of UNESCO’s enhanced protection mechanisms.