State television reported that the Grand Husseiniya building, a hall for Shia gatherings in Zanjan, “was damaged following the enemy’s morning attack on Ferdowsi Street.”
Officials said parts of the dome and minarets suffered significant structural harm. Local authorities confirmed that the strikes damage also resulted in casualties, killing four people and injuring 26 others, according to ISNA news agency citing provincial deputy governor Ali Sadeghi.
Zanjan, an industrial provincial capital about 300 kilometres northwest of Tehran, has seen increased security concerns due to the ongoing conflict. Residents report widespread destruction to local infrastructure alongside the historic sites.
According to the UN, at least four of Iran’s 29 UNESCO-listed heritage sites have suffered damage in the war. These include the Golestan Palace in Tehran, Chehel Sotoun Palace in Isfahan, the Masjed-e Jame mosque in Isfahan, and prehistoric sites in Khorramabad Valley.
Ahmad Alavi, head of Tehran city council’s heritage committee, said last week that airstrikes had damaged over 120 culturally and historically significant sites across the country since the war began. He specifically mentioned Tehran’s Marble Palace, Teymourtash House, and the Saadabad Palace complex, a major tourist attraction.
Experts note that the strikes damage not only affects cultural heritage but also threatens local tourism and the economy. Conservation efforts may take years to restore some of these iconic landmarks.
The Iranian government has called for international attention and support to protect and document damaged sites. Officials warn that continued attacks could further destroy invaluable cultural and historical landmarks.
The attack on Zanjan highlights the broader impact of the conflict on civilian areas and cultural heritage. Residents and local authorities continue to assess the damage and coordinate relief and preservation efforts.
Overall, the ongoing air raids emphasize the risks to both human life and Iran’s cultural legacy. Authorities confirm that the strikes damage extends beyond Zanjan, with numerous other historic sites across the country under threat.
The government has urged all parties to respect cultural heritage and minimize civilian harm during the conflict.
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