Iran has initiated emergency restoration efforts to repair historical sites damaged during conflicts involving the United States and Israel, according to Alireza Izadi, director general of the Office for the Registration of Historical Sites within Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts.

Izadi outlined that the restoration process begins with the preparation of detailed plans, followed by securing necessary funding, after which restoration work is commenced. He noted that some restoration activities have already started under direct administration by ministry staff, while other aspects requiring contractual arrangements are pending funding approval. The ministry’s Technical Council is currently reviewing restoration plans, and once these receive final approval, contractors will be engaged for broader implementation.

The urgency of the restoration was underscored during a recent meeting led by Cultural Heritage Minister Seyed Reza Salehi-Amiri. Minister Salehi-Amiri instructed restoration teams to proceed with their work immediately, whether through in-house operations or contracted services. Izadi highlighted that favorable weather conditions have facilitated the commencement of fieldwork, and positive commitments regarding funding have been made by Hamid Pourmohammadi from the Planning and Budget Organization during a discussion held approximately two weeks ago. A comprehensive damage report was prepared and submitted at the meeting to help secure financial allocations.

Given the current insecure environment, which falls between wartime and peacetime conditions, emergency protective measures have been prioritized for all affected sites. These measures include protective coverings, relocation of vulnerable objects—particularly in museums—and interventions in historic buildings and heritage districts. Izadi emphasized that such protective actions are distinct from full restoration efforts, which are reserved for sites that have sustained verified damage.

Some damaged sites require extensive technical study prior to restoration, especially complex cases such as the Golestan Palace and S’adabad Palace, where investigations of underlying layers and delicate mirrorwork are necessary. Consequently, careful documentation and technical assessments are ongoing to guide meticulous restoration planning.

Regarding the involvement of international experts, Izadi acknowledged that Iran has invited UNESCO specialists to assist in damage assessment and reporting. However, he stressed that awaiting their arrival will not delay ongoing restoration activities. The ministry is conducting comprehensive documentation, including photographic records, to ensure that all restoration work adheres to professional standards, allowing experts to clearly distinguish between original and restored sections.

Funding for the restoration derives from a combination of internal government credits and financial support from the Management and Planning Organization. The ministry is also engaging with international entities and the Association of Benefactors to supplement resources for this effort. Izadi expressed optimism that this collaborative approach will provide the necessary financial backing to advance the restoration projects promptly.