Israeli airstrike damages Safavid-era palace in Iran's Isfahan

Historic landmarks in the Iranian city of Isfahan, including the Safavid-era Chehel Sotoun Palace, were reportedly damaged following an Israeli airstrike on the provincial governor’s building on March 10, CNN reports.

The palace is located near the residence of the governor of Isfahan. According to available information, the blast wave from the strike damaged parts of the palace complex, which is known for its frescoes, reflective pool, and historic halls dating back to the 17th century.

A resident of Isfahan described tight security measures around the historic district following the strike. According to the witness, surrounding streets were blocked and people were not allowed to approach the complex.

“They are very strictly blocking the surrounding streets,” the man said. “You can’t go through by car or on foot, and sometimes they take people’s phones. There are very few photos.”

He added that the governor’s residence stands only a short distance from the palace. “Between the Chehel Sotoun building and the governor’s office there are only a few trees, and apparently even those were damaged,” the person said.

Reports have also emerged of destruction near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a Safavid-era square listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is home to major historical monuments, including the Ali Qapu Palace and several historic mosques.

The reports come days after the UN cultural agency warned of risks to cultural heritage sites in Iran following recent strikes in Tehran.

In a statement issued after damage to the Golestan Palace in Tehran, UNESCO said the site had been affected by debris and shockwaves from an airstrike near Ark Square in the capital. The agency said it is closely monitoring the situation of cultural heritage sites in Iran and across the region.