Iranian Scientists Report Devastation of Labs and Libraries Amid Conflict
Since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, bombing by the United States and Israel has damaged approximately 30 Iranian universities, including Sharif University of Technology and the Pasteur Institute. Iranian researchers report severe disruptions to scientific work due to destroyed infrastructure, lost academic resources, and government-imposed internet blackouts. Over 1,400 international scholars have signed a statement condemning attacks on civilian academic and research facilities. Scientists describe difficulties in accessing data, collaborating with international peers, and maintaining mental focus amidst ongoing bombardment. While US and Israeli officials deny targeting civilian infrastructure, they have not explained specific strikes on these institutions. Beyond immediate physical damage, academics fear long-term consequences, including financial constraints on research funding and increased government repression against critics following the war. The article highlights personal accounts from physicists, ethicists, and neuroscientists who urge the global scientific community to recognize these challenges and advocate for the protection of research institutions, emphasizing that normalizing such attacks poses a lasting threat to global science.
Wire timeline
Iranian Scientists Report Devastation of Labs and Libraries Amid Conflict
Since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, bombing by the United States and Israel has damaged approximately 30 Iranian universities, including Sharif University of Technology and the Pasteur Institute. Iranian researchers report severe disruptions to scientific work due to destroyed infrastructure, lost academic resources, and government-imposed internet blackouts. Over 1,400 international scholars have signed a statement condemning attacks on civilian academic and research facilities. Scientists describe difficulties in accessing data, collaborating with international peers, and maintaining mental focus amidst ongoing bombardment. While US and Israeli officials deny targeting civilian infrastructure, they have not explained specific strikes on these institutions. Beyond immediate physical damage, academics fear long-term consequences, including financial constraints on research funding and increased government repression against critics following the war. The article highlights personal accounts from physicists, ethicists, and neuroscientists who urge the global scientific community to recognize these challenges and advocate for the protection of research institutions, emphasizing that normalizing such attacks poses a lasting threat to global science.
Nature