The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) expresses its deep concern over the damage to several key heritage sites in Lebanon as a result of the brutal Israeli aggression. The Organization underscores the need to categorically address all acts of destruction targeting Lebanon’s heritage sites and tackle the ensuing grave dangers.

In this regard, ICESCO calls for comprehensive and effective international cooperation involving heritage stakeholders, including international organizations and civil society bodies, in a bid to address risks and curb their spread to other heritage sites. The Organization also pledges to allocate its expertise and knowledge to preserve Lebanese historical sites, assess the magnitude of the damage and take immediate measures to ensure their protection.

Given the significance of cultural heritage as the cornerstone of human identity, ICESCO reiterates its commitment, in cooperation with international and local stakeholders to develop and implement preservation and restoration strategies to safeguard Lebanon’s rich and diverse heritage. It also expresses its readiness to cooperate with international heritage preservation and promotion experts to safeguard cultural treasures to future generations.

Likewise, ICESCO stresses the need to adopt an international standard approach that compels all parties to work towards protecting heritage sites in conflict and war zones, and raise awareness of the universal value of heritage culture, highlighting the shared responsibility of its protection.