Structural vulnerability of civilian infrastructure in Iran amid geopolitical tensions
Original framing: “In maps and photos: Five Iranian civilian bridges at risk of US strikes” — Al Jazeera
The use of infrastructure as a military target has deep historical roots, from the bombing of the Euphrates in World War I to the destruction of the Old Bridge in Mostar during the Bosnian War. These precedents show how infrastructure is weaponized to destabilize communities and assert dominance.
The potential targeting of Iranian bridges is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a broader pattern where civilian infrastructure is weaponized in geopolitical conflicts.
This reflects a systemic failure in international law and diplomacy to protect cultural and economic assets during times of tension. Historical parallels show that such actions often lead to long-term instability and cultural loss. Incorporating indigenous and traditional knowledge, strengthening international legal frameworks, and engaging civil society can help prevent the militarization of infrastructure. A cross-cultural and scientific approach is essential to ensure that infrastructure development and protection are aligned with humanitarian and ecological principles.