Blue Shield International Urges Immediate Protection of Iran’s Cultural Heritage
WANA (Mar 13) – Blue Shield highlighted that while the protection of human life and dignity must remain a top priority in any crisis, safeguarding populations without preserving their cultural heritage is incomplete, as cultural heritage represents a core part of human identity and a shared resource for all humanity.
The statement also referenced UNESCO’s concerns about the state of heritage sites in the region and called on all parties involved to refrain from military actions that could damage historical monuments or sites.
Blue Shield stressed that the protection of cultural property is a fundamental principle of international humanitarian law and must be observed regardless of political considerations or geographical borders, establishing it as a binding behavioral standard.
A view of debris at the historical monument Golestan Palace following an Israeli and U.S. strike on the Justice Building in the area, amid the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 3, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
As an independent, non-governmental, and neutral organization, Blue Shield monitors heritage sites, archives, libraries, and historical monuments continuously and mobilizes its global network of experts to minimize potential damage to these cultural assets.
The organization affirmed its readiness to cooperate with all relevant authorities and stakeholders to protect cultural heritage and expressed support for initiatives aimed at reducing harm and advancing peaceful solutions.
The statement was issued on March 13, 2026, and signed by Peter Stone, President of the International Blue Shield Organization.
Iran Marks 120+ Museums and Historic Sites with Blue Shield for Protection
WANA (Mar 10) – Mohsen Tousi, Director General for Preservation, Restoration, and Rehabilitation of Historic Monuments, Textures, and Sites at Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization, announced that more than 120 museums and several historic buildings across Iran have been marked with the Blue Shield symbol to safeguard valuable cultural and historical assets. […]
