26 03 2026

University of Kurdistan Faculty Members Emphasize the Importance of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage, Characterizing Attacks on These Sites as an Assault on the Historical and Cultural Identity of Nations, and Underscoring the Necessity of Protection and International Prosecution.

Historical Monuments as Symbols of National Cultural and Social Capabilities

According to the University of Kurdistan Public Relations, a faculty member of the University of Kurdistan asserted that the historical monuments of any nation represent the symbols of that society's cultural, social, and economic capabilities, emphasizing the vital importance of preserving this heritage.

Hamed Ghaderzadeh stated: "One of the most significant assets of any country is its antiquities and cultural heritage, which can bridge the generational gap and strengthen the connection between the new generation and the past." He added: "The historical monuments of every nation are symbols of the cultural, social, economic, and environmental capabilities of that society, playing a crucial role in introducing it to other nations."

Ghaderzadeh continued: "Historical and tourism sites are symbols of tranquility, civilization, and the vitality of a society; targeting them during conflicts carries extensive psychological consequences for civilians." He characterized attacks on cultural infrastructure as a flagrant violation of international law, stating: "An attack on cultural infrastructure is an insult to a nation."

Referring to the region's historical background, Ghaderzadeh added: "Historical buildings, such as the Khosro-Abad Mansion, demonstrate the antiquity and cultural standing of the people of this region. Throughout history, certain colonial powers have economically exploited these artifacts by transferring them to their own lands." He also critiqued the performance of international institutions, stating: "According to United Nations principles, no country has the right to attack the historical monuments of another under any circumstances."

The Destruction of Cultural Heritage and Antiquities is a Manifest Violation of International Law

A faculty member of the University of Kurdistan stated that the destruction of antiquities and cultural heritage is an act contrary to international law and must be halted immediately.

Behzad Izadi stated: "In reality, attacking the culture and history of a society is an instance of a crime against humanity." He continued: "The cultural heritage of Kurdistan Province serves no military function, and targeting it is an attempt to consign the nation's historical past to oblivion."

This university professor added: "The enemy seeks to foster a sense of despair and vulnerability within society by destroying what is valuable to the people." Izadi emphasized the necessity of documentation, adding: "Capturing films and photographs of historical sites can serve as vital records for future generations and for prosecution within international forums."

Attacking Historical Sites is an Attempt to Eradicate the Cultural Identity of Nations

An Assistant Professor at the University of Kurdistan stated that attacking historical and cultural sites is an attempt to destroy the cultural identity of nations, and the international community must not remain silent.

Omid Azizian stated: "The destruction of history is, in fact, an act of revenge against a nation that has steadfastly refused to compromise its identity and independence." He continued: "Attacking cultural and historical infrastructure indicates that the objective is not merely military, but is rooted in an opposition to the country's historical and civilizational background."

Referring to Kurdistan's historical antiquity, Azizian noted: "Kurdistan possesses a history spanning several millennia, and damage to its monuments inflicts serious harm on the country's culture and history." He concluded: "Despite certain limitations in information dissemination, it is essential to pursue and prevent these actions through relevant institutions and international assemblies."