TEHRAN - Over the past two days (Saturday and Sunday), multiple Israeli missile strikes targeted areas within three kilometers of Taq-e Bostan, one of Iran’s most significant Sasanian-era archaeological complexes near Kermanshah.

The attacks generated violent tremors that shook the ancient site, raising urgent concerns about irreversible damage to this irreplaceable cultural treasure.

Taq-e Bostan, registered on Iran’s National Heritage List and included in UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage status, comprises a series of monumental rock reliefs, including two majestic arched niches and standalone carvings commemorating Sasanian kings. The surrounding region also shelters critically important Paleolithic sites—Warwasi, Kobeh, Do-Ashkaft, and Malaverd caves—now at imminent risk.

The latest strike on Sunday directly hit the rock art sites of Sorkheh Lizeh, located near Emam Reza Hospital, confirming fears of active destruction. Experts warn that the loss of these cultural landmarks would represent a devastating blow to global human heritage, demanding immediate international attention to prevent further damage.

AM