Report on the Protection of Cultural Heritage Amid Israel-Iran Conflict

Introduction and Context

The International Council of Museums (ICOM), based in Paris and comprising 8,000 museum professionals worldwide including members from Israel and Iran, issued a strong warning following initial bomb strikes in the Israel-Iran conflict. ICOM highlighted a “growing danger” to museums and their employees in both countries and urged adherence to international conventions protecting cultural heritage during conflicts. Despite these appeals, the impact remains uncertain due to limited information, particularly from Iran, where press restrictions are severe.

Activation of Contingency Plans

Both Israel and Iran have activated contingency plans aimed at securing, removing, and relocating cultural assets to mitigate damage. However, the extent of any damage remains unclear.

Protection Measures in Iran

Evacuation of the National Museum in Tehran

• Iran possesses a rich cultural heritage including 28 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and approximately 840 museums, with 300 under the Culture Ministry’s administration.
• Judith Thomalsky, head of the Tehran branch of the German Archaeological Institute, confirmed the presence of a well-organized heritage authority in Iran.
• The National Museum in Tehran, Iran’s oldest and most significant museum, has been evacuated, with portable objects moved to secure cellars and immovable artifacts protected by sandbags.
• Internet shutdowns and restricted communications have caused intermittent contact with Iranian museum professionals.

Challenges in Protecting Archaeological Sites

• Open-air archaeological sites such as Persepolis, Bisotun inscriptions, and Takht-e Soleyman are difficult to protect from conflict-related damage.
• The Taq-e Bostan rock relief, a unique Sasanian-era monument, is reportedly at risk due to nearby bombings causing shock waves.
• Iran lacks bunker facilities for protecting either people or cultural treasures, increasing vulnerability.

Protection Measures in Israel

Emergency Actions by Israeli Institutions

• Following Iranian counterattacks, Israeli museums activated emergency plans to safeguard collections.
• The Tel Aviv Museum of Art secured its collection in underground storage and plans to reopen on July 3.
• The Israel Museum in Jerusalem remains open, equipped with safe rooms for emergency protection of its 500,000 objects.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Israel

• Israel hosts nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the White City of Tel Aviv, Masada fortress, and the Old City of Acre.
• The Israel Antiquities Authority has reported no damage to archaeological artifacts or museum objects under its management.

International Frameworks and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Legal and Institutional Protection

• The 1954 Hague Convention mandates the protection of cultural material during armed conflict.
• The 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention governs the conservation of cultural assets internationally.
• ICOM’s advocacy aligns with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by promoting adherence to international laws protecting cultural heritage.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals

1. SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Protecting museums and heritage sites preserves cultural identity and promotes sustainable urban development.
2. SDG 4 – Quality Education: Museums serve as educational resources fostering cultural awareness and historical knowledge.
3. SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: Upholding international conventions during conflict supports peaceful societies and institutional integrity.
4. SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: International cooperation through UNESCO and ICOM exemplifies global partnerships to safeguard cultural heritage.

Upcoming UNESCO World Heritage Committee Session

The 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee will convene in Paris from July 6-16 to discuss future cultural heritage site designations. Although the Israel-Iran conflict is not currently on the agenda, the session underscores ongoing international commitment to cultural preservation.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges posed by the Israel-Iran conflict, efforts to protect cultural heritage reflect a commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those emphasizing peace, education, and sustainable communities. Continued vigilance and international cooperation remain essential to safeguarding invaluable cultural assets for present and future generations.

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The article discusses the protection of cultural heritage sites and museums in Israel and Iran, which are integral parts of sustainable cities and communities.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The emphasis on adherence to international conventions for the protection of cultural heritage during conflict relates to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies and strong institutions.
3. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Museums and cultural heritage sites contribute to education and cultural awareness.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The international cooperation and involvement of UNESCO, ICOM, and other organizations reflect partnerships to achieve sustainable development goals.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.4: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.
3. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including through education for sustainable development and global citizenship.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.16: Enhance the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology and financial resources.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Indicators related to Target 11.4:
   • Number of cultural and natural heritage sites protected and preserved, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
   • Extent of damage or preservation status of cultural heritage sites during conflicts.
   • Implementation of contingency plans and protective measures (e.g., evacuation of museums, use of sandbags, underground storage).
2. Indicators related to Target 16.3 and 16.10:
   • Adherence to international conventions such as the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention.
   • Access to information and transparency regarding the status of cultural heritage sites during conflict.
   • Level of cooperation between international organizations and national authorities in protecting cultural heritage.
3. Indicators related to Target 4.7:
   • Number of educational programs or initiatives related to cultural heritage and sustainable development.
4. Indicators related to Target 17.16:
   • Number and effectiveness of international partnerships and collaborations (e.g., ICOM, UNESCO) in safeguarding cultural heritage.
   • Frequency and outcomes of international meetings such as the UNESCO World Heritage Committee sessions.

4. SDGs, Targets and Indicators Table

Source: dw.com