By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Authorities in Tehran say about 700 mosques across the city could be used as emergency shelters during major crises.

Tehran Governor Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian said the plan covers mosques in all 22 districts of the capital and is meant to provide shelter and basic support in severe situations.

He explained that the mosques would be equipped with solar panels, power generators, water supplies, and basic food and shelter facilities to support people during emergencies, including war.

Motamedian said the plan is part of wider efforts to improve urban preparedness and ensure a faster response during crisis situations, although no clear timeline for full implementation was given.

The announcement comes amid ongoing concerns about the lack of proper public shelters in many Iranian cities during past conflicts.

Previous reports during recent wars involving Iran, Israel, and the United States suggested that public places like schools, stadiums, and universities were used during emergencies due to limited shelter infrastructure.

The new plan has also raised questions about the safety of mosques as shelters, with no details yet provided on their ability to withstand airstrikes.

Source: IranWire