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Tehran keeps museum treasures secure pending clearance
Tehran City Council Heritage Committee Chairman Ahmad Alavi said the artifacts had been transferred to protected vaults as a precaution and would not be returned to museums until the ministry issues an official authorization.
"The security of historical artifacts is our red line," he said, adding that all decisions are being made in line with expert assessments by the relevant authorities.
He also said damage assessments have been completed for museums and historic sites affected during the recent conflict, with restoration and structural reinforcement now underway, particularly at properties managed by Tehran Municipality.
Separately, Deputy Minister for Cultural Heritage Ali Darabi said 149 historical sites, 54 museums, seven historic districts and five nationally registered monuments in 18 provinces sustained damage during the conflict. He said Iran has sent more than 17 communications to UNESCO and other international bodies regarding the losses.
Darabi said the country operates seven secure heritage repositories and is extending backup storage facilities, financial assistance and loans to private museums to strengthen the protection of their collections.
He added that museums will reopen fully once stable conditions are officially confirmed.
He also announced plans to launch a nationwide virtual museum platform to broaden public access to Iran's cultural heritage.