Isfahan's historic treasures lie in ruins after devastating air raids
Heavy air raids have struck Isfahan, Iran's historic cultural capital, leaving centuries-old landmarks in ruins. The city's famed old quarter, home to palaces and mosques, suffered severe destruction in the attacks. Officials have condemned the strikes as an assault on global heritage, with preliminary damage estimates ranging from $200 million to $300 million.
Among the worst-hit sites are the Chehel Sotun Palace and parts of the Imam Mosque in Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The palace, a UNESCO-listed Persian Garden, dates back to the 17th century and stands as one of Iran's most celebrated cultural treasures. Governor-General Mehdi Jamalinejad described the destruction as catastrophic, criticising international bodies for failing to intervene.
The raids came as Iran mourned the loss of senior military commanders in recent U.S.-Israeli strikes. Funeral processions were held across the country, coinciding with the announcement of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader, following his father's death. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei accused foreign governments of ignoring warnings about Isfahan's protected status, calling the attacks a deliberate strike against civilisation. Meanwhile, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed that Iran's retaliatory strikes on U.S. and Israeli targets had inflicted over $25 billion in losses. The statement followed weeks of escalating tensions, with both sides exchanging airstrikes and accusations.
The destruction in Isfahan has left officials demanding accountability, though no immediate response from international organisations has been reported. With key landmarks damaged and a new leadership in place, Iran faces both a cultural and political reckoning. Repair efforts will likely take years, given the scale of the devastation.
