PARIS : In an official statement, UNESCO said several locations of cultural significance listed on the World Heritage List have already been affected or damaged following the outbreak of hostilities in the region. The escalation, the organization noted, has also led to widespread human suffering, displacement, and numerous deaths and injuries.
UNESCO warned that the impact of the ongoing conflict extends beyond cultural sites, placing increasing pressure on education systems and knowledge institutions across the region and beyond. The organization highlighted rising risks to education workers, students, educational infrastructure, as well as media and scientific facilities.
According to UNESCO, the continued hostilities threaten the safe functioning of schools and universities, disrupt access to information, and jeopardize spaces dedicated to learning, research, and international scientific cooperation.
The UN body further stated that it remains committed to safeguarding cultural heritage by continuing to share the geographical coordinates of sites listed on the World Heritage List, national tentative lists, and locations under enhanced protection with relevant parties.
UNESCO has expressed grave concerns over the impact of Middle East hostilities on world heritage sites and education systems. The conflict has already damaged cultural landmarks and is threatening educational infrastructure, endangering students and educators. UNESCO remains dedicated to protecting these sites by sharing their geographical coordinates with relevant parties.