Iran is confronting a massive wildfire in its northern Hyrcanian forests, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich biodiversity. The blaze, which has reignited following earlier containment reports, poses a significant threat to the ancient forests that stretch along the southern Caspian Sea coast. These forests, dating back around 50 million years, are home to more than 3,200 plant species, representing a “floral biodiversity remarkable at the global level,” according to UNESCO.
To combat the fire, Iran has mobilized two Ilyushin firefighting aircraft, seven helicopters, and approximately 400 firefighters. Neighboring Turkey has extended assistance by sending two firefighting planes and a helicopter, while officials have indicated that Russia could also offer support if necessary. Vice-President Shina Ansari highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing the need for international cooperation to contain the disaster.
Local authorities suggest that human activity may have contributed to the fire. Unauthorised hunting and illegal attempts to clear forested areas for construction are under investigation as possible causes. These factors, combined with a severe drought marked by rainfall 85% below average, have made containment efforts more challenging.
The fire threatens not only the region’s ecological balance but also its global significance as a protected heritage site. Environmental experts warn that continued wildfires could cause irreversible damage to the forests, endangering rare plant species and disrupting the delicate ecosystem.
Iranian officials and international partners are working to control the blaze and minimize losses, emphasizing the importance of preserving this unique forest for future generations. The ongoing situation underscores the broader challenges posed by climate change, human activity, and the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts to protect UNESCO-protected sites worldwide.
